Our research line characterizes how alterations in the uterine environment—specifically maternal depression and serotonin depletion—persistently program the cortical plasticity and behavior of the offspring. We have validated Distress-induced Maternal Depression (DMD) models that allow for the study of social communication deficits and vulnerability to alcohol consumption during critical developmental stages.
Our central goal is to identify circuit biomarkers and validate rescue strategies (nutritional and phytotherapeutic) with high translational applicability, utilizing automated analysis tools to ensure reproducibility and methodological rigor.
COMPETITIVE RESEARCH FUNDS
- 2026-2027: PIDTA 2025 (FORMAR Line). “Impact of Maternal Depression on the Serotonergic System”. Director.
- 2023-2025: PIP CONICET. “Conditioned neuroinflammation and modulating factors of alcohol consumption”. Responsible Group Member.
- 2023-2025: PIBAA CONICET. “Role of serotonergic alterations in embryogenesis”. Director.
- 2022-2024: PICT 2020 SERIE A. “Serotonergic alterations during sensitive developmental periods”. Director.
PUBLICATIONS (LATEST FIVE YEARS)
- Fornero L, et al. & Fabio MC, et al. (2026). Modeling microbiota-mediated risk for alcohol use disorder: a preclinical study of fecal transplantation. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse.
- Fabio MC, et al. (2025). Prenatal serotonin depletion persistently disrupts social behavior and modulates ΔFosB and SERT expression in mice. Pharmacol Biochem Behav.
- Marengo L, et al. (2025). Analysis of the synergy between prenatal ethanol and postnatal adolescent ethanol exposure. Alcohol.
- Marengo L, Fabio MC, et al. (2023). Folate administration ameliorates neurobehavioral effects of prenatal ethanol exposure. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse.
- Fabio MC, et al. (2022). Serotonin disruption at gestation alters expression of genes associated with serotonin synthesis and reuptake at weaning. Psychopharmacology.
- Zalosnik MI, Fabio MC, et al. (2021). MeCP2 deficiency exacerbates the neuroinflammatory setting and autoreactive response during an autoimmune challenge. Scientific Reports.
- Bellia F, et al. & Fabio MC (2021). Transient serotonin depletion at adolescence reduced subsequent anxiety-like behavior and alcohol intake. Psychopharmacology.
- Complete and updated list available here.
TEAM
