The lab uses quantitative proteomics, based on mass spectrometry and its integration with "system biology" tools, to identify therapeutic targets and biomarkers of oncological interest (in particular, we are studying the effectsof K-Ras oncogene on secretome belonging to epithelial human cells deriving from pancreatic duct). The neurotoxic effects on neuronal development of environmental pollution are studied by using primary neuronal cultures and animal models, that mimic prenatal exposure.
Study of proteome alterations to understand the causes of some diseases
This research unit is aimed at the identification, quantification and structural characterization of those proteins present in all biological samples, through combination of biochemical techniques, mass spectrometry and bioinformatics tools. Analysis of single proteins of particular biomedical interest as well as the global expression of protein within biological systems (proteome) are carried out. Global expression studies are performed mainly to determine alterations in the protein expression profile which occur at the onset and during the progression of tumors. The aim is to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying these diseases in order to obtain useful information for the treatment of patients.
Neurotoxicity studies of environmental pollutants
This research unit studies the effects induced by different types of environmental pollutants (bacterial endotoxins, flame retardants, pesticides, endocrine disruptors, etc.) on neurons development and maturation and on the activation of the inflammatory response resident cells in the central nervous system, in order to define the risk of exposure to these substances. To this end, cellular models, derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (IPS) of human origin, and primary neuronal cultures, obtained from animal models, are used. Cellular and molecular alterations are analyzed through advanced methods and technologies of microscopy, imaging, biochemical and analytical tests, proteomics and metabolomics.
International Consensus on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation.
