Doctoral Researchers’ Seminar by Sophia Auer (A02) and Sebastián Vásquez Sepúlveda (A05)
On March, 26, 2026, EBM (post)doctoral researchers gathered at the MPZPM in Erlangen for a seminar featuring contributions from subproject A02 and A05. The session provided insights into current research on brain malformations from both molecular and mechanical perspectives.
Sophia (A02) presented her work on quantitative characterization of human brain malformations, with a particular focus on the role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in conditions such as focal cortical dysplasia type IIb. Especially, the importance of perineuronal nets (PNNs) was highlighted and findings of proteomic profiling of epileptic human tissue were shared, offering new perspectives on how ECM components contribute to epileptic pathologies.
Sebastián (A05) introduced his research on the mechanical role of the UDP-galactose translocator Slc35A2 in brain malformations, using Xenopus tadpoles as a model system. With a particular focus on the human brain malformation MOGHE, his work demonstrated how molecular alterations can influence tissue mechanics during development and thereby contribute to structural abnormalities.
The seminar concluded with engaging discussions on potential future collaborations and interdisciplinary exchange.
Sophia Auer, A02