About me
My name is Pablo, and as a cancer researcher, I'm dedicated to studying the intricacies of diseases to discover novel approaches to individualized medicine, enhancing healthcare outcomes. I have a Ph.D. in Physiology and a background in pharmacology, and I focus on the redox biology side of cancer development and progression.
One of my main ongoing projects aims at determining how changing trace element levels in cancer patients relate to modifications in signaling patterns that could promote chemotherapeutic resistance or potentiate their effect. By understanding this connection, I aim to contribute to the creation of more potent and effective anticancer drugs.
I have a wide range of interests outside the lab. I love being outdoors, going on hikes, and discovering new places. I also like engaging with the arts through reading, theater, and music, and I enjoy traveling and immersing myself in other cultures as well. All of these experiences give my work a distinctive perspective and inspire me to make a difference in the world.
I'm honored to be a member of the Karolinska Institutet family, and I'm dedicated to expanding our knowledge of cancer development and progression in order to offer patients the best healthcare possible and improve their outcomes everywhere.
Research description
The complexity of cancer and how the environment in which it arises may have such a big impact on its development intrigue me. That is why my research is centered on investigating the role of trace elements in cancer pathogenesis. More specifically, I'm interested in how differences in selenium, copper, and zinc levels affect different redox signaling pathways in cancer cells.
It is widely known that there are remarkable shifts in homeostasis, steady-state levels, and dynamics of trace elements in patients diagnosed with cancer. Unlike copper (Cu), which is usually increased, the levels of zinc (Zn) and selenium (Se) are often lower in the serum of cancer patients. In colorectal and breast cancers, elevated serum Cu correlates with the stage of the disease and its progression. In addition, tumor tissue appears to specifically accumulate Cu and Se, and in some tumor types, also Zn. The underlying molecular mechanisms explaining these effects are however essentially unknown and they are the focus of my main research project.
The battle against cancer is ongoing, and as a researcher, I am dedicated to doing my part to develop innovative therapies. My work centers on understanding the complex interactions between trace elements and cancer, with a particular focus on how these elements modulate redox signaling pathways. Through my research, I aim to identify new therapeutic targets and contribute to the development of more effective and personalized cancer treatments.
Additionally, I'm still working on the thioredoxin-related protein of 14 kDa (TRP14), which I started doing throughout my Ph.D. studies. My research is shedding new light on the roles of this recently-discovered protein by investigating the modulation of cellular redox functions in the context of different diseases.
Teaching portfolio
As a dedicated teacher, I work hard to make learning fun and interesting for my students. I currently teach Biochemistry to Biomedical students and Medical students, primarily in laboratory sessions but sometimes in seminars and other projects. I'm committed to sharing my knowledge and experience with my students, and I constantly work to create a positive, welcoming environment in which everyone is encouraged to participate and voice their opinions.
In addition to my classroom teaching, I also have extensive experience supervising students who come to the lab. I think that hands-on work is an essential component of learning, and I enjoy helping students in gaining the abilities and knowledge they will require to be successful in their future careers.
As a general rule, I focus on making studying entertaining and fun while still making sure that students acquire the knowledge and abilities they need to thrive in their future careers. I am dedicated to keeping myself updated with the most recent research and teaching strategies, and I am constantly searching for fresh approaches to engage and motivate my students.
Education
I obtained my Degree in Pharmacy from the University of Valencia in 2015. I then pursued a Master's Degree in Clinical Pharmacology at the same institution and obtained my degree in 2016. However, my desire to pursue more advanced research led me to enroll in an International Ph.D. in Physiology program, which I completed in 2020. During my Ph.D. studies, I conducted research in the groups of Dr. Sastre –at the University of Valencia– and Dr. Arnér –at Karolinska Institutet–, focusing on the role of TRP14 in protein cysteinylation, redox signaling, and inflammation in a mouse model of acute pancreatitis. My dedication and diligence during my PhD studies were recognized with the highest honor, Cum Laude, for my thesis.
Throughout my academic journey, I have been fortunate enough to present my research at several international conferences throughout my academic career, enabling me to gain invaluable feedback and establish enduring partnerships with leading experts in my field. Today, I leverage my educational background and research experience as a strong foundation for my work.