Jordi Duran Castells

Jordi Duran Castells is an Assistant Professor at the Bioengineering Department of the IQS School of Engineering, Ramon Llull University. His research focuses on metabolic pathways in neurological and degenerative disorders, particularly glycogen metabolism in the brain and liver. He leads multiple interdisciplinary projects funded by institutions like the National Institutes of Health and Fundación Ramón Areces, addressing diseases such as Lafora epilepsy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

His expertise includes glycogen synthase regulation, astrocyte function, and autophagy mechanisms. Key projects include developing mRNA-loaded nanoparticles for Lafora disease treatment and investigating glycogen storage disorders' neurological impacts. Collaborations span institutions worldwide, emphasizing translational research in biotechnology and biochemistry.

Research highlights include uncovering glycogen's role in ALS progression and identifying metabolic pathways in chondrosarcoma. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being (SDG 3) and innovation (SDG 9).

He directs the Grup de Química Biològica i Biotecnologia lab, integrating bioengineering approaches to tackle metabolic diseases. Current projects emphasize targeted therapies for glycogen storage disorders and nanomedicine applications.