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Author Profile: Jorge Alonso‐Eiras

2024; Wiley; Linguagem: Inglês

10.1002/cm.21985

1949-3584

Jorge Ignacio Alonso-Eiras,

Biological Research and Disease Studies

We chose to submit our review article on WIP (WASP-interacting protein) to Cytoskeleton due to the journal's focus on the role of the cytoskeleton in cellular processes that we ourselves were interested in. WIP is involved in the remodeling of subcellular cytoskeletal actin structures in processes such as migration through interstitial tissues and immune responses. Additionally, we aimed to summarize WIP's implication in the pathophysiology of various diseases, including solid tumors, where it contributes to processes like tumoral cell migration, invasion, and metastasis, all of which are reliant on the actin cytoskeleton. Cytoskeleton was a natural choice to share this summary of findings. I owe much to the physicians and scientists who have contributed to both my training and growth as a physician and researcher. Their insights and feedback have been key to my development as a scientist. I am especially grateful to my Master's advisor, Inés M. Antón, who guided me and provided invaluable support in crafting this review article on WIP. Her advice and direction were crucial in the complex task of synthesizing decades of research on WIP into a clear and cohesive whole. As mentioned in our review article, there is still much to be learnt about the mechanisms through which WIP mediates its functions, particularly in cancer. Future research will need to address the exact molecular pathways that allow WIP to modulate cancer cell aggressiveness in certain contexts. Additionally, I believe there is potential for clinical applications of WIP, particularly in its use as a biomarker for cancer prognosis. For instance, investigating the correlation between WIP expression levels and cancer outcomes, such as overall survival, could be of great utility. Outside of science, I'm passionate about playing electric guitar, especially funk and rock music. I love playing the music of bands like The Beatles and the Chili Peppers. Music is a great way for me to relax, and it also fuels my creativity. Playing guitar is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my life outside of science. It brings me fun and challenges me to improve. Naturally, the object that holds the most importance to me is my heavily customized 2006 Squier Stratocaster guitar. This guitar has been with me for years, and it is my main instrument for exploring music. As much as I rely on my phone, my computer or even coffee throughout the day, I had honestly rather be without those than without my guitar.