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Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)


A study by IRB Barcelona and the BSC rethinks the origin of our cells as a story of microbial alliances

A study by IRB Barcelona and BSC suggests that the origin of complex cells was a longer, more gradual process than previously thought. The researchers identified signals from bacterial groups and giant viruses that may have facilitated gene exchange, contributing to the complexity of eukaryotic cells.

AI enables the design of new molecules that selectively target specific cells

Researchers at IRB Barcelona used AI to design new chemical entities that selectively target specific cell types, demonstrating superior activity compared to conventional screening strategies. The methodology, called phenotypic discovery, uses observable responses in cells rather than a specific molecular target.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateJun 2, 2026

KRAS degradation induces rapid lung cancer regression in preclinical mouse models

Researchers discovered that degrading mutant KRAS protein leads to greater lung cancer regression and more durable antitumor responses than conventional inhibitors. The study also identifies resistance mechanisms distinct from those previously described, offering new insights into targeted protein degradation therapies.

Mitochondria identified as key player in a rare disease causing microcephaly

A study led by Dr. Marco Milán identified mitochondria as a key player in a rare disease causing microcephaly, a condition where the brain develops to a smaller size. The researchers found that mitochondria dysfunction leads to proteotoxic stress, causing cells to accumulate errors in chromosome distribution, resulting in microcephaly.

The key to attacking “undruggable” proteins: IRB Barcelona reveals a breakthrough drug mechanism

A study published in Science Advances reveals a mechanism to bind to intrinsically disordered proteins, providing a new approach for therapeutic design. The research, led by Dr. Xavier Salvatella, shows that these proteins adopt more organized conformations when clustering, allowing for selective binding by a drug.

Smoking and biological sex shape healthy bladder tissue evolution, offering clues to cancer risk

Researchers found that smoking and biological sex shape how normal cells evolve in healthy bladder tissue, with certain mutations gaining an advantage to expand into clones. This study offers new insights into cancer risk and prevention by providing a way to understand tissue evolution and identify early warning signs.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 8, 2025

The 43rd Barcelona BioMed Conference explores the potential of Artificial Intelligence to transform biomedical research

The conference gathered international researchers to discuss AI's role in drug discovery and development, including generative AI strategies for designing chemical compounds. The speakers emphasized the significance of personalized medicine, where therapies will be tailored to each patient's unique molecular profile.

Key breakthrough in autism: pivotal role of CPEB4 condensates revealed

A study by IRB Barcelona has identified a molecular mechanism underlying idiopathic autism, linking the lack of a specific neuronal microexon to decreased gene expression crucial for neuronal development. The discovery reveals how CPEB4 condensates regulate gene expression and highlights potential therapeutic approaches.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 4, 2024

Five key factors predict the response of cancer patients to immunotherapy

A study by IRB Barcelona researchers has identified five independent factors that determine patients' response and survival after receiving checkpoint inhibitors, a type of immunotherapy. These findings provide a framework for current and future biomarkers of immunotherapy response and could lead to more accurate patient classification.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Genetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 12, 2024

Synchronization between the central circadian clock and the circadian clocks of tissues preserves their functioning and prevents ageing

Researchers have discovered that synchronization between the central circadian clock and peripheral clocks in muscle and skin is crucial for maintaining tissue function and preventing degenerative processes associated with aging. Time-restricted feeding can partially replace the central clock and enhance the autonomy of the muscle cloc...

Researchers from IRB Barcelona and Sant Joan de Déu unveil the origin of second pediatric cancers and chemotherapy-induced mutations in healthy tissues

A study by IRB Barcelona and Sant Joan de Déu Hospital reveals three distinct patterns explaining the occurrence of second cancers in children, including a mutational footprint from chemotherapy. The research advances understanding of pediatric cancer and highlights the importance of clinical data sharing.

Hard to drug: Protein droplets reveal new ways to inhibit transcription factors in an aggressive form of prostate cancer

Researchers have discovered a new approach to targeting transcription factors in prostate cancer by exploiting the formation of protein droplets. This process can be used to inhibit androgen receptor activity, which is essential for the growth and survival of cancer cells.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateDec 4, 2023

Researchers decipher the mechanism by which the MAF protein promotes breast cancer metastasis

Researchers at IRB Barcelona have identified the mechanism by which the MAF protein promotes breast cancer metastasis, revealing a key interaction with the estrogen receptor. This finding opens up new therapeutic options for patients with high MAF levels, who may benefit from treatments aimed at preventing metastases.