معرفی
Maria Cascio is a Research Fellow at the University of Aberdeen, currently serving as Senior Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Partner within the Directorate of People. She holds a PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from the University of Fisciano, Salerno, Italy (2006) and has been based at the University of Aberdeen since 2007. Her academic journey includes significant research contributions in cannabinoid pharmacology and medicinal chemistry.
- PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, 2006, University of Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
- Master in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technologies, 2002, University of Palermo, Italy
Maria Cascio's primary research interests lie in the pharmacology and therapeutic potential of plant cannabinoids, with a focus on the endocannabinoid system in health and disease. Her work spans medicinal chemistry, allosteric modulation of cannabinoid receptors, and the development of novel CB1 and CB2 receptor ligands. She also investigates the anti-proliferative effects of omega-3 fatty acids and their derivatives in prostate cancer. Her research combines biochemical, pharmacological, and cell-based assays to characterize cannabinoid activity.
Her recent publications reflect a strong trend in methodological development for cannabinoid receptor assays, pharmacological characterization of phytocannabinoids like THCV and CBD, and exploration of their therapeutic applications in inflammation, cancer, and neurological disorders. The work often involves interdisciplinary collaboration and synthetic chemistry approaches to probe receptor mechanisms.
Maria Cascio is actively involved in university governance and inclusion initiatives, serving on multiple committees including the University Race Equality Strategy Group, the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, and as a Social Bias Observer in Promotions Committees.
She has supervised both undergraduate and PhD students and has secured research funding from diverse sources including NIDA, NHS Grampian, Tenovus Scotland, and the University of Aberdeen. Her collaborations span institutions in the UK, Italy, and the US, reflecting the international scope of her research. She also contributes to the scientific community as a peer reviewer, book reviewer, and former Guest Associate Editor for Frontiers in Neuropharmacology.
Maria Cascio leads and participates in several research teams focused on cannabinoid pharmacology, prostate cancer, diabetic nephropathy, anticonvulsant effects, and analgesia. Her work is supported by internal collaborators such as Dr Iain Brown, Professor Matteo Zanda, and Dr Mirela Delibegovic, and external partners across Europe and the United States.
