Jose Angel Nicolas Avila, PhD

At the Nicolas-Avila Lab, we explore the mechanisms by which immune cells contribute to tissue function. Our goal is to develop strategies to enhance organismal health through immunomodulation.

Almost every organ in the body contains tissue-resident immune cells integral to its normal composition. These cells form the first line of defense against infections, but also play crucial roles in the normal functioning of their respective tissues. For instance, we have demonstrated that cardiac macrophages support cardiomyocytes by removing damaged mitochondria and other waste products, which is essential for maintaining heart function.

Our laboratory has developed tools and strategies to modify immune cell function and explore their interactions with other cells. We use these methods to investigate their roles in tissue physiology and function. Additionally, since many diseases and conditions (such as aging) are known to compromise immune cells, we are exploring the exciting potential of enhancing tissue function by improving immune cell performance.

The primary research goals of our laboratory are:
1) To understand how immune cells contribute to tissue function.
2) To define the molecular mechanisms that mediate communication between tissue-resident immune cells and other tissue components.
3) To identify diseases and pathological conditions that compromise the function of tissue-resident immune cells.
4) To develop strategies to enhance tissue function through immunomodulation.

B.S. Santiago de Compostela University.
M.S. Autonoma de Madrid University.
Ph.D. Autonoma de Madrid University (summa cum laude and extraordinary prize).
Postdoc. Spanish National Center for Cardiovascular Research (Dr. Andres Hidalgo laboratory).