Ramón Hurtado Guerrero
Centre: BIFI
Institution: University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza (Spain)
Position: Researcher from the “ARAID” program
E-mail: rhurtado@bifi.es
Phone: 976 762997
Profile: Ver
Personal statement
I graduated as a pharmacist from the University of Granada. Later I wrote a PhD in molecular biology and enzymology of trypanosomatids at the “López-Neyra” Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine in Granada. As a postdoctoral researcher, I worked in Leeds, London and Dundee, where I discovered the fascinating world of enzymes that process carbohydrates. Here I also learned protein crystallography, a tool that we use very frequently in my laboratory. After my stays in the United Kingdom, I got a senior position as principal investigator (ARAID researcher) at the University of Zaragoza (BIFI in November 2009), where I direct my own laboratory and have matured as a completely independent scientist.
Researcher profile identity
I am an ARAID researcher with R4 level. Our group is interested in the study of glycosyltransferases, glycosylhydrolases and carbohydrate-binding proteins involved in human diseases. We use protein crystallography as the main tool, complemented by enzymology, inhibition studies, etc. The aim of our studies is to study the molecular mechanisms of enzymes that are involved in the synthesis, modification and degradation of glycoconjugates, oligo- and polysaccharides. Furthermore, we are interested in the elucidation of reaction coordinates and molecular mechanisms by using transition state analogues or Michaelis complexes. Finally, our studies will be important for the design of new drugs with future therapeutic applications in several diseases.
Why my research is important
My research focuses on generating innovative ideas and tools in the field of glycobiology, especially in the study of glycosylation mechanisms involved in diseases such as cancer and infections. Through the analysis of key enzymes in post-translational modifications, as well as the development of antibodies and nanobodies, my work contributes to the understanding of fundamental biological processes and opens the door to new therapies.
The applied approach of my research is key, as the therapeutic molecules and antibodies/nanobodies developed can become the basis of new drugs. This could have a significant impact on public health, especially in the fight against cancer and fungal diseases, where there is an urgent need for more effective treatments. In addition, my work offers tools that improve the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases, contributing not only to the advancement of medical science, but also to the improvement of the quality of life in society.
Know more about me and my research here
– https://bifi.es/es/biofisica/
