Quantum Dots and peptide-based sensors to develop and improve drug selection in neurodegenerative diseases

DIPC Seminars

Speaker: Valle Palomo
IMDEA Nanociencia
When: 2024/05/31
12:00
Place: Donostia International Physics Center (Hybrid Seminar)
Host: Marek Grzelczak
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Quantum Dots and peptide-based sensors to develop and improve drug selection in neurodegenerative diseases

Our research is focused on the use of chemical tools, including nanoparticles, to understand biological mechanisms in pathological conditions of neurodegenerative diseases. Among other materials, we use Quantum Dots (QDs) as luminescent nanoparticles to visualize molecular targets, monitor enzyme activity, cellular functionality and identify biomarkers. QDs offer great potential for studying biological systems due to their optimal luminescent properties and the versatility of conjugation with different biomolecules. In particular, we have developed protease sensors for in live cell activity montoring and developed tools to track molecular motors such as kinesin and dynein. We test these systems in presence of drug candidates that help us to optimize drug selection against neurodegenerative diseases. In parallel, we develop multitarget drugs against Alzheimer's disease and their conjugation to nanoparticles to improve brain delivery. Here I will show the different strategies we are using to develop drugs and effectively measure therapeutic action on neurodegenerative disease models.