Matteo Ruggiu

Matteo Ruggiu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at St. John's University's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of alternative splicing and its role in neuronal function and neurodegenerative diseases. He holds a Ph.D. and leads a lab exploring how RNA-binding proteins regulate splicing events, particularly in the context of disorders like epilepsy, autism, and spinal muscular atrophy. His work is supported by a National Institutes of Health grant.

Research Interests: Dr. Ruggiu investigates how alternative splicing generates proteome diversity and contributes to tissue-specific functions. His lab studies protein-RNA networks that control splicing, with a focus on neurological systems. Key areas include understanding how splicing defects lead to disease and developing tools to analyze splicing dynamics in immune and neuronal contexts.

Grants & Funding: His NIH-funded research examines the role of alternative splicing in neuron biology and disease. This support enables studies on RNA regulatory networks, particularly involving proteins like NOVA2 and SMN, which are critical for synaptic function and motor neuron survival.

Labs & Teams: Research is conducted in his lab at St. John's, focusing on molecular and cellular biology techniques including PCR assays, RNA sequencing, and mouse genetics. Collaborations emphasize translating splicing insights into potential therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders.