Alessandra Fiorio

Alessandra Fiorio is an Associate Professor in the Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology at the University of Turin, specializing in Physiology (BIOS-06/A). She leads multiple significant research projects including the AIRC Italy Post-Doc, ITACA initiative, FORum of European Universities for All (UNITA), and PRIN 2022 project focused on tumor microenvironmental acidosis and calcium channels in cancer.

Dr. Fiorio's research centers on calcium signaling in cancer biology, particularly pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Her work examines how acidic tumor microenvironments affect calcium channels and signaling pathways, influencing cancer progression and treatment resistance. She develops innovative photodynamic therapy approaches using metal-organic frameworks and squaraine dyes for targeted cancer treatment.

Her recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate a strong focus on overcoming drug resistance in pancreatic cancer through novel therapeutic strategies. Key themes include metal-organic framework-based drug delivery systems, pH-responsive nanoparticles, and the role of calcium signaling in cancer cell behavior and metastasis.

Dr. Fiorio actively participates in European research networks and public engagement activities, including the UNITA European Universities alliance and various science communication initiatives focused on migration and international collaboration.

Her research group offers students opportunities to work with advanced techniques including single-cell RNA sequencing, nanoparticle formulation, and specialized cell culture methods that mimic tumor microenvironments. The international scope of her projects provides valuable cross-border research experiences.