PRR Project

Summary

Scientific profile and tasks to be assignedThe selected applicant in Neurodevelopment will leverage on research around the impact of maternal environment during developmental periods on offspring central nervous system, with a particular emphasis on understanding sex-specific alterations.The research will elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between early-life stressors, including maternal metabolic disturbance, namely diabetes, and psychiatric disorders. Considering that the prevalence and clinical presentation of psychiatric disorders is different between sexes, the Assistant Professor to be hired will also be dedicated to the study of sex differences in psychiatric pathology. Identifying critical periods of vulnerability and understanding sex-specific changes can inform early intervention strategies and tailor therapeutic approaches to mitigate adverse health outcomes.The research program will also be focused on clarifying if prenatal stress exposure and maternal metabolic dysfunction trigger neurological changes during development, that can be correlated with structural and functional neuro-retina impairments later in life. The research developed by the selected applicant  will allow to establish neuro-retinal alterations as potential biomarkers of psychiatric pathology.This is of relevance in the scientific fields of Neuroscience, Metabolism and Vision Sciences, fields of intensive research at CIBB. Rationale for the need, relevance of the scientific profile in the context of the state-of-the-art and involved institutions:The exact mechanisms by which early-life stressors negatively affect offspring neurodevelopment and predispose to psychiatric disorders and putative neuro-retina impairments, requires urgent investigation. An Assistant Professor with background in this area will be crucial for: i) the elucidation of cellular and molecular players during development that underpin disease outcomes, ii) the establishment of preventive and therapeutic strategies promoting healthier pregnancies with major impact on offspring health throughout life.Additionally, relevant background in addressing sex differences in psychiatric pathology will be fundamental for: i) advancing research, ii) a more personalized intervention, improving clinical outcomes iii) promoting equitable mental health care for all individuals.This research topic is of utmost relevance in the fields of Neuroscience, Metabolism and Vision Sciences to which CIBB researchers are committed. The know-how in this field will greatly synergize with the research groups at CIBB. It will pave the way for new discoveries and the development of personalized therapies considering sex-specificities, ultimately advancing health and well-being for individuals across all stages of life.