Nuno Santos Lab

Biomembranes & Nanomedicine

Biochemical and biophysical processes occurring at the level of the membranes of human cells, as well as of their viral and bacterial pathogens. Study of the two steps of the life cycle of enveloped viruses (mainly HIV-1 and dengue virus) that involve biomembranes – the entrance of the virus or its content into the target cell and the assembly of new virions. Study of the binding of fibrinogen to the erythrocyte membrane and its relevance as cardiovascular risk factor.

Pre-clinical evaluation of the membrane activity and mechanism of action at the molecular level of antimicrobial peptides (AMP) and cell-penetrating peptides (CPP). On the Nanotechnology/Nanomedicine area, we are also working on the development of innovative biosensor systems, with improved selectivity and sensitivity (e.g., nanoparticles and amyloid-based biosensors).