Nerve Regeneration Group, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde / i3S - Porto, PT
https://www.i3s.up.pt/research-group.php?groupid=39 

Speaker: Session 1 - Regeneration and Metabolism 
 

Professor Mónica M Sousa is Group Leader of the Nerve Regeneration group at the Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, Portugal. Her research addresses the cellular and molecular mechanisms governing axon growth, degeneration, and regeneration in the context of peripheral neuropathies and neurodegenerative disease.

Her work has significantly advanced the understanding of how cytoskeletal dynamics—particularly microtubule organization and intracellular transport—control neuronal polarity, axonal integrity, and regenerative capacity. By linking defects in these processes to protein aggregation and impaired proteostasis, she has provided important insights into the mechanisms underlying nerve degeneration.

A major breakthrough from her group was the identification of the spiny mouse as the first mammalian model capable of spontaneous spinal cord regeneration, establishing a unique platform to uncover mechanisms of regenerative competence in mammals. By combining in vivo models with advanced molecular and imaging approaches, her research bridges fundamental cell biology and translational neuroscience, with the aim of developing novel strategies to enhance nerve repair and functional recovery.

Professor Mónica M Sousa has received multiple prestigious distinctions, including major national awards, an ERC Advanced Grant, and election to EMBO, reflecting the international impact of her work. 

For further information, please visit: 
https://www.i3s.up.pt/research-group.php?groupid=39 / https://www.cienciavitae.pt/portal/pt/2B16-E5A4-771C