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• Environmental Biotechnology
• Nanotoxicology
• Plant Physiology
• +3 more

Marta Marmiroli is an Associate Professor at the University of Parma in the Department of Chemical, Life and Environmental Sustainability Sciences . Her research focuses on environmental biotechnology, nanotoxicology, and sustainable agricultural practices through biochar applications. PhD in Biotechnology (University of Parma, 2002) International collaborations with institutions in France, Germany, New Zealand, UK, and USA Research Interests : Environmental Biotechnology – Studying physiological, biochemical, and molecular effects of nanomaterials in plants ( Arabidopsis thaliana , tomato) and yeast ( Saccharomyces cerevisiae ). Trace Metal Cycling – Investigating arsenic and silicon interactions in tomato plants. Biochar Characterization – Developing biochar as sustainable soil amendment for pollution remediation. Notable Scientific Contributions : Participated in 15+ EU/NATO/International grants including Horizon 2020 INTENSE , FOODINTEGRITY , and TRACEBACK . Pioneered synchrotron-based techniques (eSRX, EXAFS) for metal speciation and localization in plant tissues. Scientific Leadership : Senior Editor of International Journal of Phytoremediation since 2009. Organized international conferences on phytotechnologies and omics applications. Teaching & Mentorship : Teaches Applied Biotechnologies and Phytoremediation courses at University of Parma. Supervised 4 PhD theses on nanoparticle-plant interactions, arsenic uptake, and bioremediation strategies.

Marco MorselliView profile

Researcher

• Molecular Biology
• Genomics
• Epigenomics
• +3 more

Marco Morselli is a Fixed-Term Researcher Type A (RTD-A) at the University of Parma within the Department of Chemical, Life and Environmental Sustainability Sciences. His career spans molecular biology, genomics, and epigenetics research, with a focus on DNA methylation mechanisms and next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies. PhD in Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology (2017, UCLA) Master's in Industrial Biotechnology (2011, University of Parma) Bachelor's in Biotechnology (2009, University of Parma) His research interests include: Molecular mechanisms of chromatin interactions Epigenetic regulation in human pathologies NGS library preparation and analysis Transposable elements in fungal genomes Environmental sustainability through biotechnology Recent work explores DNA methylation dynamics, cancer suppression pathways, and viral vector safety. He teaches courses in Biocomputational Genomics and Epigenomics and Eukaryotic Gene Regulation . Contact: marco.morselli@unipr.it

• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Molecular Biology
• RNA Biology
• +3 more

Francesca Persichetti is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health Sciences at the University of Eastern Piedmont, where she leads research on molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases with a focus on RNA biology and genetic pathways. Her primary research spans Neurodegenerative Diseases, Molecular Biology, and RNA Biology, with specialized expertise in Huntington's Disease and non-coding RNA systems. She investigates how LINE-1 retrotransposons regulate cortical development, how SINEUP non-coding RNAs depend on RNA modifications like N6-methyladenosine, and the neurotoxic role of neuronal hemoglobin in Parkinson's disease models. Her work integrates genomic, transcriptomic, and molecular approaches to uncover disease mechanisms. Recent publications (2022-2023) reveal consistent focus on retrotransposon dysregulation in Huntington's disease, RNA modification-dependent gene regulation, and hemoglobin-induced neurodegeneration. These studies demonstrate interdisciplinary convergence of neuroscience, genetics, and molecular biology, with implications for therapeutic targeting of RNA pathways in neurodegeneration. Scientific Awards: No specific awards mentioned in source materials She secured two major research projects as Principal Investigator from MIUR (Italian Ministry of Education, University and Research): 'Genomica Funzionale delle Malattie Neurodegenerative' (2012-2018) exploring genomic bases of neurodegeneration, and 'Triggering neuroprotective pathways to prevent neurodegeneration' (2019-2023) investigating estrogen receptor beta/neuroglobin signaling in Huntington's disease. No student advising roles are documented in available records. Her research group collaborates extensively with molecular neuroscience teams including Stefano Gustincich and Roberto Sanges, operating within the Department of Health Sciences framework. Current work focuses on RNA-mediated neuroprotective pathways and retrotransposon dynamics in disease models, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being).

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Multiple Sclerosis
• +4 more

Umberto DIANZANI is a Full Professor at the University of Eastern Piedmont 'Amedeo Avogadro' , affiliated with the Department of Health Sciences . His research spans immunology, oncology, and neuroimmunological disorders, focusing on the ICOS/ICOSL/Osteopontin network's role in tumors and autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis. Active projects include chemoimmunotherapy combinations for pancreatic cancer and bone-targeted drug delivery systems Key collaborations with Fondazione AIRC, Regione Piemonte, and Fondazione Cariplo Research interests center on: Immunomodulatory mechanisms in cancer and autoimmune diseases Biomarker discovery for early diagnosis and disease progression Nanotechnology applications in drug delivery and tissue repair Recent article trends highlight his work on: ICOS-Fc decorated nanosponges for pancreatic cancer Septin-4 covalent binders in melanoma metastasis Kappa index as a diagnostic biomarker in multiple sclerosis Labs & teams include: Leading the ICOS/ICOSL/OPN Triangle in Tumors project (2023-2028) Collaborating on Pa.N.E.: Panem Nostrum Everyday Nutrire Terdona with multidisciplinary researchers

Alexander MentzerView profile

Researcher

• Human Genetics
• Infectious Disease Immunogenetics
• Genomics
• +4 more

Alexander Mentzer is a Principal Investigator and Senior Clinical Researcher at the University of Oxford's Nuffield Department of Medicine (part of the Medical Sciences Division). He is also an Honorary Consultant physician in Infectious Disease and General Medicine at the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. His research bridges human genetics and immunology to study infection susceptibility, with a focus on tuberculosis, malaria, sepsis, and viral diseases like SARS-CoV-2, herpes, and hepatitis. Research Themes: Human genetics, immunogenetics, vaccine response, and public health applications. Cohorts: ISARIC, Sepsis Immunomics, BioAID, UK Biobank, VaccGene, Mexico Biobank. Mentzer's work integrates genetics, genomics, transcriptomics, and population studies to identify genetic variants influencing immune responses. His lab collaborates globally, emphasizing populations disproportionately affected by infections. Recent projects include antibody profiling, T-cell dynamics in vaccination, and regulatory genetic variation in sepsis. His team has developed a multiplexed pathogen antibody testing platform for large-scale studies. Current efforts aim to translate findings into improved diagnostics, vaccines, and interventions for severe infections.

Andrea TangherloniView profile

Assistant Professor

• Computational Biology
• Bioinformatics
• Artificial Intelligence
• +3 more

Andrea Tangherloni is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computing Sciences at Bocconi University , Milan, Italy. His academic journey includes a Bachelor’s (2013), Master’s (2015), and PhD (2019) in Computer Science from the University of Milano-Bicocca. Prior to his current role, he held positions as a Research Associate at the University of Cambridge and Wellcome Trust – MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute (2018–2020), and Postdoctoral Research Fellowships at the University of Bergamo (2020–2022) and Bocconi University (2022–2023). Education: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD in Computer Science from University of Milano-Bicocca (2013–2019). Research Interests focus on bridging Computational Biology , Bioinformatics , and Artificial Intelligence to address computationally intensive challenges in biology and medicine. His work emphasizes developing AI-based tools for understanding cell development, disease progression, and advancing personalized and regenerative medicine through techniques like Machine Learning , Computational Intelligence , and High-Performance Computing . Publication Trends highlight his contributions to single-cell RNA-seq analysis, autoencoder-based methods, and GPU-accelerated simulations. Key areas include cell type identification , multi-objective optimization , haplotype assembly , and medical imaging enhancement , reflecting interdisciplinary applications of AI in biomedical research.

• Biomechanics
• Bioengineering
• Orthopedic Biomechanics
• +10 more

Cristina Bignardi is a Full Professor at the Polytechnic University of Turin , Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (DIMEAS). She serves as Deputy Director of DIMEAS and is a member of the Interdepartmental Center PolitoBIOMed Lab (Biomedical Engineering Lab). Research Interests: Biomechanics of internal and external fixation systems for bone fractures Biomechanics of the pelvic floor Biomechanics of the spine Biomechanics of arthroplasty Dental biomechanics Orthopedic biomechanics Design of bioreactors for mechanical stress on scaffolds Her recent publications focus on biomechanics, bioengineering, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine, with particular attention to pulsed electromagnetic field stimulation, multiscale modeling, and advanced characterization techniques. She has developed innovative bioreactor platforms for bone tissue investigations and contributed to understanding bone and cartilage responses to mechanical stimuli. Scientific Awards: Highly Cited Research Award from Journal of Biomechanics - Elsevier, Netherlands (2016) National Society Award for the Manuscript at 15th ESSKA Congress in Geneva, Switzerland (2012) As a course instructor, she teaches Design of Prostheses and Artificial Organs and Mechanical Bioengineering in the Biomedical Engineering program. She leads numerous research projects including BIGMECH , DIVOC , and W.D.Plate , focusing on precision orthopedic medicine, non-invasive ventilation, and implant stability.

• Health Impact of Dietary Supplements
• Martial Metabolism
• Cardiovascular Risk and Physical Activity
• +6 more

Paolo Borrione is an Associate Professor at the University of Rome Foro Italico , affiliated with the Department of Human Movement and Health Sciences . His research spans sports medicine, hematology, and exercise physiology, focusing on topics like health impacts of dietary supplements , cardiovascular risk in athletes , and biological responses to doping agents . Education : Not explicitly stated Current Roles : Associate Professor, Researcher in Sports Health Sciences His recent publications highlight interdisciplinary work in anti-doping strategies , aging biomarkers , and metabolic regulation . Key themes include transcriptomic analysis of doping samples, sarcopenia prevention through exercise, and novel biomarker discovery for blood manipulation. Scientific awards are not mentioned in the provided texts. He collaborates with institutions like the University of Rome Foro Italico, University of Cape Town, and Medico-sports organizations on projects related to doping ethics, hormonal interventions, and geriatric exercise protocols.

Donato InversoView profile

Researcher

• Immunology
• Hepatology
• Cancer Biology
• +3 more

Donato Inverso is a Researcher in the Department of General Pathology at Vita-Salute San Raffaele University. His research focuses on immunological mechanisms underlying metabolic disorders, liver diseases, and cancer biology. He specializes in investigating how immune cells and signaling pathways contribute to conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver cancer, and immune-mediated pathology. His work integrates experimental medicine and pathophysiology, with recent emphasis on intercellular communication (e.g., nanotube-mediated mitochondrial transfer), T cell dysfunction in NASH, and therapeutic targets like co-signaling receptors in hepatitis B. He also explores regionalized medicine strategies to enhance localized immune responses. Teaching responsibilities include courses in Pathology for medical degree programs, covering general pathology principles and clinical applications. Publications highlight contributions to understanding immune mechanisms in liver diseases, viral infections, and cancer immunotherapy resistance. His research bridges basic science and clinical applications, with implications for developing targeted therapies for metabolic and oncological conditions.

• Rheumatology
• Autoimmune Diseases
• Clinical Immunology
• +3 more

Prof. Matucci Cerinic Marco is a Full Professor in the Department of Rheumatology at Vita-Salute San Raffaele University. His work focuses on autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic sclerosis and psoriatic arthritis, with emphasis on clinical guidelines, genetic mechanisms, and translational research. He has contributed to major initiatives like the 2023 EULAR systemic sclerosis treatment recommendations. His research explores biomarkers, drug therapies, and integrative genomic approaches. He is actively involved in clinical trials (e.g., riociguat in systemic sclerosis) and interdisciplinary studies linking rheumatology with cardiology and pulmonology. Over 600+ publications highlight his contributions to systemic sclerosis pathogenesis, treatment protocols, and patient care standards. He coordinates doctoral programs in clinical sciences and participates in international conferences on autoimmune diseases.

• Neuroimmunology
• Neural Stem Cell Biology
• Multiple Sclerosis Therapy
• +5 more

Paola Panina is an Associate Professor of Applied Medical Sciences at the Faculty of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan. She holds a Biology degree from the University of Parma (1983), a postgraduate specialization (1987), and a PhD in Biotechnology from the University of Brescia (1993). Her career includes roles at the Basel Institute for Immunology (1988–1991), CNRS-LGME INSERM (France), and Roche Milano Ricerche as a Senior Scientist. She co-founded Bioxell SpA in 2002, directing preclinical research for therapies targeting multiple sclerosis and lung inflammation. Currently, she leads the BRAVEinMS initiative, developing bioinformatics and cell reprogramming tools to discover drugs for progressive MS. Her lab focuses on neural stem cell transplantation, iPSC-derived neural progenitor cells, and their neuroprotective roles. Education: Bachelor’s in Biology, University of Parma (1983) Postgraduate Specialization, University of Parma (1987) PhD in Biotechnology, University of Brescia (1993) Research Interests: Her work bridges neuroimmunology, regenerative medicine, and cell therapy. Key areas include: - Mechanisms of neural stem cell transplantation in MS - Bioinformatics-driven drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases - Epigenetic dynamics in cell reprogramming - Role of autophagy and the cannabinoid system in inflammation - Zika virus impact on neural progenitor cells Scientific Contributions: Over 98 publications span topics like 3D stem cell models for MS, heparin’s antiviral properties, and chromatin velocity analysis. Recent clinical trials include a phase 1 study of neural stem cell transplantation for progressive MS. Awards: Royan International Research Award (2013) Fellowship Association pour la Recherre sur le cancer (1991) Fellowship from Istituto Superiore di Sanità (1991) Leadership & Networks: Coordinates BRAVEinMS, a six-institute network for MS research, and serves as a Membro Commissione VQR and gender equity committee representative at the university. Her interdisciplinary teams collaborate across immunology, bioengineering, and computational biology.

• Applied genetics
• Gene editing
• Transgenic organisms
• +6 more

Marianna Fasoli is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biotechnology at the University of Verona. She specializes in plant molecular biology with a focus on grapevine genetics and physiology, contributing to both basic and applied research in viticulture and enology. Research Areas: Applied genetics, transcriptomics, and plant stress biology in grapevine cultivation Teaching: Biotechnology of fruit crops and viticulture courses at both bachelor's and master's levels Her research explores molecular mechanisms controlling grapevine berry development, with particular attention to hormonal regulation, gene editing applications, and environmental adaptation strategies. She investigates transcriptomic responses to abiotic stresses and contributes to genomic resource development for viticulture. Scientific contributions include: Advancing CRISPR-based genome editing in grapevine without transgenic elements Developing molecular phenology scales for precise berry developmental analysis Studying terroir effects on ripening traits through genomic expression Mapping quantitative trait loci (QTL) for grapevine improvement

• Agricultural Genetics
• Plant Genetics
• Functional Genomics
• +7 more

Prof. Mario Pezzotti is a Full Professor at the Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona. He specializes in Agricultural Genetics and Functional Genomics, focusing on grapevine (Vitis vinifera) development, transcriptomics, and genetic improvement. His research explores molecular mechanisms governing berry ripening, gene regulation networks, and epigenetic factors. He leads projects like GRAPEDIA and INTEGRAPE, aiming to integrate genomic resources for viticulture. Teaching includes modules on Plant Genetics, Molecular Biology, and Viticultural Science. Administrative roles include Department Director and membership in PhD boards. His lab, Genomica Funzionale, develops genomic and transcriptomic analysis tools. Collaborations with spin-offs like EDIVITE and Microbion highlight applied research in biotechnology. Research Interests: Agricultural Genetics, Plant Genomics, Functional Genomics, Vitis vinifera Biology, Transcriptomics, Epigenetics, Viticultural Biotechnology. Key Projects: GRAPEDIA (Grapevine Genomics Encyclopedia), Regulation of gene expression in grapevine, INTEGRAPE (Data integration for grapevine improvement). Publications: Recent works focus on berry development phenology, WRKY gene networks, and NAC transcription factors. Highlights include molecular phenology scales and genomic resource catalogues.

• Plant-Soil Interactions
• Mineral Nutrition of Plants
• Biochemistry of Plant Nutrition
• +6 more

Zeno Varanini is a Full Professor in the Department of Biotechnology at the University of Verona, specializing in Agricultural Chemistry (AGRI-06/B). His research focuses on plant-soil interactions, mineral nutrition of plants, and sustainable agricultural practices, with particular emphasis on grapevine nutrition. He teaches Agricultural Chemistry for the Bachelor's degree in Viticultural and Oenological Science and Technology, Biochemistry and Physiology of Plant-Soil Interaction for the Master's degree in Agri-Food Biotechnology, and Environmental Sustainability for the Master's degree in Viticulture, Oenology and the Wine Market. His main research interests include: Physiology, biochemistry and molecular biology of mineral nutrition in plants Soil-rhizosphere-root system interactions related to nutrient availability Responses to nutritional stress and fluctuations Root plasma membrane mechanisms regulating nutrient uptake Soil nutrient supply and crop requirements assessment Development of innovative fertilizers for sustainable agriculture Professor Varanini's extensive publication record demonstrates consistent research activity in plant nutrition, particularly focusing on iron and phosphorus nutrition, nanofertilizers, and biostimulants. His work bridges fundamental plant physiology with practical agricultural applications, contributing significantly to sustainable farming practices through innovative fertilizer development and understanding plant responses to nutrient deficiencies. Among his notable research projects are: Iron (Fe) innovative fertilizers for sustainable solutions to crop Fe chlorosis Effects of synthetic iron phosphate nanoparticles in the plant-soil system Field to field: valorisation of biomolecules from soybean by-products as defense products Production of algal fertilizers and biostimulants from livestock digestates Professor Varanini actively participates in third mission activities, including public engagement and continuing education events related to sustainable agriculture and plant nutrition. He serves on multiple teaching committees and the Biotechnology Departmental Council, demonstrating strong institutional involvement within the University of Verona.

• Forest Genetics
• Reproductive Dynamics
• Gene Flow
• +4 more

Camilla Avanzi is a Researcher III at the Institute of Biosciences and BioResources (IBBR-CNR) in Florence, Italy. Her work focuses on forest genetics, reproductive dynamics, and conservation of marginal tree populations. She holds a Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology (2019) from the University of Ferrara and a Master’s in Ecology and Conservation (2015) from the University of Parma. Her research integrates genetic data with dendrochronology to study tree resilience under environmental pressures. Key projects include EU-funded initiatives like B4EST and FORGENIUS, focusing on forest genetic resources and climate adaptation. Technical expertise spans field sampling (tree coring, environmental characterization), lab techniques (DNA extraction, PCR), and computational tools (R, genetic analysis software). Publications emphasize population genetics, gene flow dynamics, and conservation strategies for conifers like Picea and Abies species. She actively participates in national/international projects addressing forest sustainability and biodiversity preservation.