Research Interests
Peripheral neuropathy and chronic pain are a common side effect of chemotherapy treatment for which there are no available treatments.
The Gómez-Deza Lab aims to understand how neurons are damaged in response to chemotherapy. However, our research is widely applicable to other neurodegenerative conditions such as glaucoma, traumatic brain injury (TBI) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
To do this, we employ a wide range of molecular and biochemical techniques, including iPSC differentiation into human neurons, whole genome CRISPR interference screens, RNAseq, CRISPR knock-ins/ knock-outs, and advanced microscopy.
The lab has a strong clinical focus. We are deeply interested in uncovering new molecular mechanisms that drive axon degeneration and neuron death to develop novel therapeutic strategies.
Our mission is also to educate and train the next generation of scientists by fostering a safe, innovative, fun and diverse environment that empowers individuals to reach their full potential. We value mental well-being, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and welcome everyone to our team.
Education
- BSc in Biochemistry - University College London
- MRes in Translational Science - King's College London
- PhD in Basic and Clinical Neuroscience - King's College London
Memberships
- American Society for Cell Biology
- Spanish Researchers in the USA (ECUSA)
Honors and Awards
- NICHD Early Career Award
- NCATS Research Project grant
- Milton-Safenowitz ALSA Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Motor Neurone Disease Association Short term grant
Publications
Gómez-Deza J, Nebiyou M, Alkaslasi MR, Nadal-Nicolás FM, Somasundaram P, Slavutsky AL, Li W, Ward ME, Watkins TA, Le Pichon CE. DLK-dependent axonal mitochondrial fission drives degeneration after axotomy. Nat Commun. 2024 Dec 30;15(1):10806. doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-54982-9. PubMed PMID: 39737939; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC11686342.
Gomez-Deza J, Slavutsky AL, Nebiyou M, Le Pichon CE. Local production of reactive oxygen species drives vincristine-induced axon degeneration. Cell Death Dis. 2023 Dec 8;14(12):807. doi: 10.1038/s41419-023-06227-8. PubMed PMID: 38065950; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC10709426.
Gomez-Deza J, Lee YB, Troakes C, Nolan M, Al-Sarraj S, Gallo JM, Shaw CE. Dipeptide repeat protein inclusions are rare in the spinal cord and almost absent from motor neurons in C9ORF72 mutant amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and are unlikely to cause their degeneration. Acta Neuropathol Commun. 2015 Jun 25;3:38. doi: 10.1186/s40478-015-0218-y. PubMed PMID: 26108573; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC4479315.