Lab’s interests

We introduced a new modality for the non-invasive electroretinogram (ERG) technique to record the basal or resting electrical activity of the retina and use this signal for the timely diagnosis of sight-threatening retinopathies, like diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, and to test new treatments for retinitis pigmentosa.

Our experimental approach is interdisciplinary: we combine physiological, pharmacological, psychophysical, and bioinformatical approaches to understand the function of retinal circuits in resting conditions. We use molecular techniques to genetically target specific molecules in the retinal network.

We juggle between experimental models and human studies, depending on the questions we have to solve. We collaborate with local clinicians at IMO and SESEQ, with optometrists in Mexico and Canada, vision scientists and psychiatrists in France.

Currently, we are focusing on the use of basal ERG signals for renal and brain diseases, and the introduction of microscopic imaging to in vivo ERG measurements.

The results of our research also led us to implement a prevention program called "No More Complications with Diabetes" in the Eye Health Optometry clinic of the ENES León Unit of the UNAM, where, among others, the non-invasive basal ERG test is used to predict the risk of developing metabolic syndrome, which is the main risk factor for type 2 diabetes, in children and adults.