Systems Neuropharmacology

The Systems Neuropharmacology group examines the brain circuits and neuronal elements involved in the pathophysiology and treatment of major depression and schizophrenia, as well as in psychiatric and cognitive aspects of the Parkinson's disease. We use a wide range of experimental strategies in animal models, including molecular, histological, electrophysiological, neurochemical and behavioral approaches. This allows a detailed assessment of brain circuits at different levels of complexity, and facilitates the identification of new therapeutic targets. Most relevant studies from the group include: the characterization of serotonin receptors in the mechanism of antidepressant action, the development of a new animal model for the identification of antipsychotic drugs, and the design and setting up of new translational therapeutic strategies based on regulatory RNAs for the treatment of major depression and Parkinson's disease.