Alberto Cruz-Martín, PhD, joins the Department of Anesthesiology as a Visiting Associate Professor
Jun 24, 2024
CU School of Medicine at the Anschutz Medical Campus is thrilled to announce the arrival of Alberto Cruz-Martín, PhD, to the Department of Anesthesiology as a Visiting Associate Professor. His groundbreaking research and extensive experience in neuroinflammation and neurodevelopmental disorders make him a valuable addition to our faculty, and we are eager to support his innovative work.
Cruz-Martín received his Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, where he completed his graduate research under the guidance of Dr. Felix E. Schweizer. His work focused on the interaction of excitation and inhibition in hippocampal microcircuits. He holds a B.S. in Biology from Universidad de Puerto Rico, Río Piedras, where he began his research journey examining structure-function relationships of nicotinic receptors. Most recently, he held a faculty position at Boston University.
Cruz-Martín’s research focuses on understanding how neural circuits are established and maintained under normal and pathological conditions. He aims to uncover how genetic perturbations lead to diseases, particularly neurodevelopmental disorders. His current work investigates the role of the immune molecule complement component 4 (C4) in schizophrenia. Dr. Cruz-Martín’s studies have shown that overexpression of C4 leads to decreased connectivity in mice lacking microglia CR3, suggesting a non-canonical mechanism for synaptic loss. This research is set to open new avenues for understanding the molecular basis of schizophrenia and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Utilizing cutting-edge techniques such as simultaneous whole-cell recordings and optogenetic stimulation, Cruz-Martín’s lab is poised to dissect the effects of genetic mutations on neuronal circuitry and behavior. His unique approach aims to characterize novel molecular mechanisms by which intracellular complement activity regulates synaptic plasticity and protein recycling. This research will be further supported by new transgenic mouse lines developed in his lab, testing the impact of schizophrenia-associated genes on brain development and behavior.
In addition to his focus on schizophrenia, he has been at the forefront of understanding cell-type-specific contributions to neuropsychiatric disorders. His lab uses advanced techniques like patch-clamp whole-cell recordings and miniscopes to image neuronal activity and behavior in genetically-identified cells. His work has already yielded significant findings, such as the link between C4 overexpression in parvalbumin-positive interneurons and anxiety-like behaviors, highlighting the intersection of neuroinflammation and pathological behavior.
Not limited there, his expertise extends to anesthetic-induced neuroinflammation. He is eager to collaborate with CU Anschutz colleagues to explore the molecular mechanisms of anesthetic agents and their long-term effects on brain function. His proficiency in imaging the brain in freely moving rodents will be a valuable asset for these collaborative efforts.
"I am incredibly excited to join the CU Anschutz community and collaborate with its esteemed faculty," said Dr. Cruz-Martín. "The supportive environment and state-of-the-art facilities here provide an ideal setting for advancing our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders and exploring innovative therapeutic approaches."
Beyond his research, Dr. Cruz-Martín is a dedicated mentor and advocate for diversity in STEM. He has mentored numerous underrepresented minority students and postdoctoral fellows, contributing to their professional development and success. His commitment to increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the biomedical sciences aligns with CU School of Medicine’s values and mission.
"We are delighted to welcome Dr. Cruz-Martín to our department," said Vice Chair of Research for the Department of Anesthesiology Susan Ingram, PhD. "His pioneering research and collaborative approach will enhance our understanding and treatment of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. Dr. Cruz-Martin’s research interests and expertise are a great fit with our faculty and we look forward to the collaborations and innovative research that he will bring to the department.”
His arrival marks an exciting chapter for the department. His ambitious and innovative research plans, coupled with his collaborative spirit, promise to elevate our research and improve patient care. We warmly welcome Alberto Cruz-Martín to CU Department of Anesthesiology and look forward to the remarkable contributions he will make to our community.
