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From left to right, researchers Jessica Segalés, Marc Liesa and Mònica Torras. Image / IBMB-CSIC
 16.01.2026

IBMB-CSIC strengthens its scientific capacity with the creation of a new platform specialized in Mitochondria and Metabolism

The Institute of Molecular Biology of Barcelona (IBMB-CSIC), located at the Barcelona Science Park, announces the launch of the new Mitochondria and Metabolism Platform, an advanced scientific infrastructure designed to boost research in cellular bioenergetics and mitochondrial function. This new platform aims to support both internal and external researchers in the study of cellular metabolism, a key field for understanding fundamental processes such as ageing, metabolic diseases, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.

The platform is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, notably the Seahorse XF Pro analyzer, which enables real-time measurement of oxygen consumption and proton production in the extracellular medium using 96-well plates. This technology provides a precise functional characterization of mitochondrial and glycolytic metabolism in living cells and has become an international benchmark tool in the field of biomedical research.

The scientific direction of the platform is led by Dr. Marc Liesa, with the support of Dr. Mònica Torras as Technical Director. Dr. Liesa has an extensive and well-recognized track record in the study of mitochondrial metabolism and is a pioneer in the use of Seahorse technology as well as in the development of innovative protocols for the analysis of mitochondrial function. His experience includes an intensive collaborative activity with more than 26 academic institutions and companies in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. He is an expert in experimental design and the execution of complex assays, and his scientific output includes 22 publications in top-tier journals such as Nature, Cell, and Science, underscoring the rigour and impact of his research.

The Mitochondria and Metabolism Platform is open to the entire scientific community, both within IBMB-CSIC and from other institutions, and offers different service modalities tailored to the needs of each research group. Currently, three service options are available, ranging from self-service access to the equipment to a comprehensive service that includes experimental planning, sample preparation, assay execution, and data analysis and interpretation. This flexibility enables efficient use of resources and ensures a high level of scientific quality across all projects using the platform.

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