We are thrilled to announce that our postdoctoral fellow, Dr. Panutsopulos, has been awarded a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Young Investigator grant under the ONISILOS co-fund scheme. This grant  will support Dr. Panoutsopoulos’ cutting-edge research aimed at investigating the role of antidepressants, such as SSRIs and ketamine, in the development of neural tube defects (NTDs) during early embryogenesis.

Dr. Panoutsopoulos’ project employs advanced methodologies using human-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neural organoids to model neural tube formation and assess the effects of antidepressants on this critical developmental process. By utilizing innovative gene-editing tools such as CRISPR-Cas9, combined with molecular and proteomic analyses, the study will uncover the complex mechanisms through which antidepressants influence neural tube closure and may contribute to NTDs.

Supervised by Dr. Zanos, this interdisciplinary research is poised to provide critical insights into the safety of antidepressant use during pregnancy, particularly regarding their impact on embryonic neurodevelopment. This study not only enhances our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders but also has the potential to influence future guidelines on the clinical use of antidepressants.

Dr. Panoutsopoulos’ award underscores his exceptional promise as a young investigator and highlights the Zanos Lab’s commitment to advancing innovative, multidisciplinary approaches to complex neurobiological challenges. We are excited about the groundbreaking contributions this research will make to the field of developmental neurobiology.