STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

• To study the changes that occur in elements of the endocannabinoid system in various neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/frontotemporal dementia, and spinocerebellar ataxias) and, more recently, in refractory childhood epilepsies (Dravet syndrome), using both experimental models (cellular or in vivo) and patient samples.
• To identify targets within this system that could be used for neuroprotective treatments and to study the molecular and/or cellular mechanisms through which they might exert this effect.
• To evaluate the neuroprotective effect of different types of cannabinoids, preferably antioxidant cannabinoids, CB1/CB2 agonists, and cannabinoids with PPAR activity, in experimental models of these diseases.
• To design and conduct biological evaluation of new types of cannabinoid molecules with selectivity for targets with neuroprotective potential. The ultimate goal is to participate in clinical studies derived from this preclinical experimentation, contributing with the analysis of biochemical markers in patient samples.

RESEARCH LINES

• The endocannabinoid system's relationship to the pathogenesis and treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases.
• Identification of targets within this system with neuroprotective potential and development of novel molecules selective for these targets.
• Application to cellular and animal models of different neurodegenerative diseases.
• Participation in clinical trials with cannabinoid drugs.