Research lines

• Nanomedicine, cell therapy, and tissue engineering in liver diseases

  Directed by Pedro Melgar-Lesmes

  We investigate molecular targets in each hepatic cellular compartment involved in liver disease pathophysiology to design precision therapies using nanoparticles delivering nucleic acids or drugs to specific cell types in inflammation, fibrosis, regeneration, and cancer. We develop 3D scaffolds and hydrogels for cell therapy delivery and in situ modulation, and use 3D-printed multicellular in vitro systems (liver organoids) to study development and therapeutic responses in injury and cancer.

• Multi-omics research in newborn screening, diagnosis, and treatment of rare diseases

  Directed by Judit García-Villoria

  Translational research in rare diseases, particularly inherited metabolic disorders, based on multi-omics strategies (genomics, metabolomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics), with direct impact on diagnosis, newborn screening, and the development of therapies. It integrates clinical, analytical, bioinformatic, and experimental data to improve diagnostic efficiency and promote more equitable and sustainable precision medicine.

• Translational application of nanozymes in liver and metabolic diseases

  Directed by Gregori Casals Mercadal

  We investigate the translational application of cerium- and gold-based nanoenzymes in steatotic liver disease by targeting redox imbalance, lipid dysregulation, and inflammation. We develop catalytic nanoplatforms with antioxidant activity to modulate oxidative stress and restore metabolic homeostasis. Our approach integrates advanced nanomaterials with preclinical models to evaluate safety and efficacy, enabling targeted therapeutic strategies to prevent disease progression.

• Research and validation of non-invasive biomarkers and antifibrotic strategies

  Directed by Manuel Morales-Ruiz

  This line centers on the research and clinical validation of non-invasive serological markers for liver injury and its complications. Concerning fibrosis, we investigate new therapeutic strategies and molecular targets to design effective interventions. We aim to bridge the gap between early non-invasive diagnosis and the successful resolution of chronic liver diseases through a translational approach that prioritizes therapeutic innovations.

• Establish new therapies for liver regeneration and the normalisation of the intrahepatic vasculature in cirrhotic livers

  Directed by Manuel Morales-Ruiz

  This research area focuses on developing innovative therapies to restore liver regeneration and normalize intrahepatic vasculature in cirrhosis. We target key drivers (e.g., Tcf20, Akt, eNOS, miR-122, RNA helicases) enhancing endothelial connectivity, inhibiting pathological angiogenesis, and promote functional tissue recovery in experimental and human models.

• Translational research in rare genetic disorders

  Directed by Manuel Morales-Ruiz

  This research area focuses on the study of rare hereditary genetic disorders and neurodevelopmental conditions, including intellectual disabilities and FMR1-related pathologies. Our work integrates translational genomics with clinical implementation within the public healthcare system, aiming to advance diagnostic accuracy, patient management, and overall quality of life.

• Clinical laboratory innovation and precision diagnostics

  Directed by Manuel Morales-Ruiz

  We drive the research and clinical translation of advanced diagnostic tools in biochemistry, toxicology and molecular biology. By developing novel biomarkers and optimizing laboratory screening, we aim to enhance clinical decision-making and patient safety through improved diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.