Antonio Sanz-Clemente

Our lab is interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying Glutamate Receptor (GluR) trafficking in normal and altered conditions. The majority of neuronal communication is mediated by the activation of GluRs, which triggers mechanisms able to induce changes at synaptic level that are thought to underlie higher cognitive functions. We use a multidisciplinary approach including biochemistry, cell and molecular biology and pharmacology as well as a variety of cutting-edge imaging techniques and the analysis of genetically-altered mouse lines for elucidating how GluRs are controlled during development, in response to experience or other stimuli and what is their impact on synaptic function. Similarly, we investigate how the dysregulation of these mechanisms lead to synaptic alterations and, eventually, to neurological disorders. Our current research is focused on studying the molecular mechanisms underlying synapse unsilencing and their contribution to Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and the regulation of NMDA receptors during development and Alzheimer’s disease (AD).