Therapeutic chemistry: drug control using light, current research and therapeutic technology for the future

The development of neuroscience and new methods has enabled us to make new discoveries in the fields of brain functions and neuronal disease mechanisms. The manipulation of biological processes using light by means of new techniques such as optogenetics has represented a revolution for experimental neurobiology. Optogenetics is based on the activation of brain networks by controlling neuronal activity through the expression of proteins that respond to light stimuli. The introduction of external proteins alters the cellular physiology that limits its therapeutic application. In a similar and complementary way, optopharmacology (the study of pharmaceuticals regulated by light to precisely control neuronal receptors) offers the advantage that it does not require any genetic alteration, and can be validated using procedures that are common in pharmaceutical research. The lecture will include a description of the current state of the research and the future possibilities for advanced therapies.

Cycle: SCIENCE ON MONDAY: Towards a new chemistry

Organized by: The Residence for Researchers, CSIC-Delegación en Cataluña, Instituto de Química Avanzada de Cataluña (IQAC)