Luca Braccioli

Dr. Luca Braccioli is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Utrecht University, Faculty of Science, where he leads the Braccioli Lab within the Biodynamics and Biocomplexity division. His research focuses on developmental biology, particularly gene regulation and inter-tissue communication during mammalian embryonic development using stem cell-based embryo models such as gastruloids.

His research interests lie at the intersection of genomics, stem cell biology, and embryology. He investigates how transcription factors regulate cell fate decisions and tissue-tissue interactions during early organogenesis. Using single-cell genomics (e.g., scATAC-seq), advanced microscopy, and chimeric gastruloid systems, his lab dissects the gene regulatory networks that drive inter-tissue communication. This work aims to uncover mechanisms essential for in vitro organ generation and regenerative medicine applications.

The recent publications from Dr. Braccioli’s lab highlight a strong focus on gene regulation, chromatin dynamics, and transcriptional control during development. Key themes include the role of transcription factors like MSGN1 and ZNF143, the function of cohesin and CTCF in genome architecture, and the use of innovative gastruloid models to study cross-lineage dependencies. These works reflect a multidisciplinary approach combining molecular biology, bioinformatics, and developmental modeling.

Dr. Braccioli actively supervises a team of researchers, including PhD, MSc, and BSc students, indicating a strong commitment to academic mentoring. While no formal grants are listed in the provided text, his publication record in high-impact journals suggests active funding and collaborative research. He works closely with other principal investigators, such as Dr. Elzo de Wit, on chromatin and gene regulation projects.

The Braccioli Lab is based in Room O.505 of the Hugo R. Kruyt Building at Utrecht University and is part of a vibrant developmental biology research group. The lab utilizes scalable, genetically tractable gastruloid models to overcome limitations of in utero embryo studies, enabling precise manipulation and real-time tracking of developmental processes.