Neuroinflammation, signaling and neuroregeneration, in short NeuroIn, focus on neurodevelopmental disabilities, genetic susceptibilities, neuroinflammation and ageing causing homeostatic imbalance and predisposing to neurodegeneration. We investigate how glial phenotypes, neuro-immune deregulation, and paracrine distress lead to disease onset/progression. We aim to identify early biomarkers for non-invasive diagnosis, generate patient-specific stratification tools for disease modeling, and improve healthcare. Inflammatory reaction within the brain and spinal cord is a protective mechanism against several toxic stimuli, but continued exposure cause chronic cell activation and function loss, leading to permanent or incapacitating neurological disorders. Our research ranges from target/mechanism discovery to clinical applications using multifaceted strategies to slow down disease progression by improving neurogenesis, facilitating cell function/replacement, and using tools as exosome/secretome-based miRNA therapeutics. NeuroIn develops a multidisciplinary integrative approach, from disease-specific research focusing on (i) Targeting intercellular communication in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation, as well as on (ii) Behavioral and cognition dysfunctions by psychoactive substances and using (iii) Advanced disease modeling for neurodegenerative disorders, toward (iv) Neuroprotective and neuroregenerative strategies, with the final goal of improving patient health. As areas of interest, we associate to Neurodegenerative disorders (Scientific) and to Evidence-based therapeutic interventions (Translational), as well as to Emerging technologies and Health care sector (Technology) within iMed.ULisboa.
Brites Lab: Neuroinflammation, signaling and neuroregeneration