Javier Francisco-Morcillo

 In general terms, Dr. Francisco-Morcillo´s lab studies neural development, regeneration and cell death. In particular, the lab focuses on the cell differentiation, regeneration, programmed cell death, and cell senescence in the neurosensory tissue of the eye, the retina. The lab also studies the recruitment of phagocytic cells into the developing retina during cell degeneration.

Current Research Ongoing projects include:

1.      Mechanisms that control histogenesis and cell differentiation in the developing retina of different vertebrates and invertebrates

2.      Mechanisms that regulate cell death and cell senescence during retinal development.

3.      Mechanisms that cause microglial cell migration into the developing retina

4.      Comparison on retinal development between altricial vs precocial species

Research Techniques: Dr. Francisco-Morcillo´s laboratory uses a variety of techniques to study retinal development. Collaborations with other laboratories offer additional training opportunities. Current projects include the use of: scanning laser confocal microscopy; epifluorescence microscopy; digital image processing and analysis; in situ hybridization; immunocytochemistry for neurotransmitters, receptors and structural proteins; enzyme histochemical methods and techniques for cell death and cell senescence detection.