Luca Fornelli

Luca Fornelli, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Oklahoma, affiliated with the School of Biological Sciences. His research focuses on developing novel mass spectrometry (MS) methods for characterizing intact protein forms (proteoforms), particularly validating the 'proteoform hypothesis.' This hypothesis posits that specific proteoforms—proteins with distinct genetic and chemical modifications—direct observable phenotypes. His interdisciplinary work bridges analytical technology advancement and biomedical applications.

Research directions include analyzing biotherapeutics, investigating large proteoforms in complex samples, evaluating proteoform dynamics in clinical biofluids (e.g., disease mechanisms), and characterizing proteoform complexes. The Fornelli Lab collaborates on advancements in Orbitrap MS and FAIMS (Field Asymmetric Ion Mobility Spectrometry), enabling deeper insights into human serum proteoforms and label-free quantification.

Recent publications highlight innovations in antibody analysis, KRAS proteoform comparisons, and cardiometabolic biomarker studies. While no awards are listed, his work has been featured in high-impact journals like J Proteome Res and Anal Chem.

Advising and grants: No formal advisees are listed, though his lab engages in collaborative research projects. His lab is located in Norman, Oklahoma, as part of the School of Biological Sciences.