VIRGINIA DE FRIAS, PHD
Professor
Dr. Virginia De Frias' research expertise is centered on translational neuroscience, with a focus on understanding the molecular, cellular, and functional mechanisms underlying brain development, neurotransmission, and neuronal resilience. She has investigated the impact of early-life nutritional deficiencies on brain maturation and function, demonstrating how prenatal protein malnutrition alters cerebral electrical activity and neurotransmission during critical periods of development. Building on this foundation, she explored mechanisms of neuronal protection against oxidative stress, including viral vector–mediated delivery of glutamic acid decarboxylase to enhance endogenous neuroprotective pathways and reduce neuronal vulnerability. Subsequently, her research has focused on the neurochemical basis of affective disorders, including quantitative analyses of serotonergic (5-HT) and dopaminergic (DA) neurotransmission in animal models of anxiety and depression. These studies evaluated neurotransmitter levels, basal and stimulated release, and turnover rates in discrete brain regions, including the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, revealing region-specific alterations in monoaminergic signaling associated with mood disorders. Collectively, her research integrates neurochemical, electrophysiological, and molecular approaches to elucidate how developmental, environmental, and pathological factors influence brain function, adaptation, and plasticity.
Dr. De Frias is committed to advancing evidence-based pedagogical practices, fostering lifelong scholarly growth, cultivating inclusive academic environments, and integrating expertise in translational physiology into medical education.
Education
- PhD in Basic Sciences with a major in Pharmacology from the Central University of Venezuela
- BS, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada