The laboratory of Organ Regeneration is focused on developing next-generation human disease models and regenerative medicine therapies for chronic diseases and acute tissue injuries.
The laboratory's research incorporates organoid, tissue on chip and tissue engineering approaches, as well as nanomedicines and in vivo animal models.
Engineering 3D human organoids and tissues for disease modelling, drug testing, and replacement therapies
Complex human 3D tissues are engineered with 3D culture systems and 3D bioprinting technologies using patients’ own cells derived from biopsies, or with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). These miniature replicas of organs (organoids) or tissues are used to model human diseases, test drugs, and study the development of human tissue in vitro. Transplantable bio-artificial tissues are also optimised for the treatment of renal anaemia.
Modulating thyroid hormone signalling to regenerate damaged organs
In this research line we study the role of thyroid hormone (TH) signalling in organ repair/regeneration during chronic stress (i.e., diabetic kidney, heart and pancreas) and after acute injury (i.e., acute renal failure and myocardial infarction). The methodology incorporates developmental biology principles and nanomedicine approaches to target and deliver TH to injured cells in order to spatiotemporally coordinate tissue regeneration.
Developing an organ on chip to model the functions of the glomerulus (the kidney’s filtering unit) in vitro
The planned methodology aims to mimic the essential physiological and mechanical features of the human glomerulus. It will be used to (i) study cellular pathophysiological pathways in response to kidney injuries; (ii) model rare kidney diseases; and (iii) test drug toxicity and efficacy in a personalised manner.
Treatment of autosomal polycistic kidney disease (ADPKD) using nanomedicine
In this line of research we work to develop an innovative nanomedicine approach to effectively and safely release L-thyroxine (T4) into the kidney, a hormone produced by the thyroid, usually reduced in patients with chronic kidney disease. Previous laboratory studies have shown that treatment with T4 can slow the progression of the disease in preclinical models, but it is necessary to find the right way to transport it and selectively release it into the kidney, avoiding unwanted effects. This research aims to develop a safe, efficient and easy-to-use method for treating ADPKD and generate important knowledge for understanding this disease.
International Consensus on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation.
