UPO book

Brief Research Description

1. Biogenesis and function of lysosomal cathepsins

Molecular mechanisms of targeting, signal transduction and interorganellar trafficking, receptor-dependent and receptor-independent transport. Genomic and proteomic-functional approach for the identification of molecules regulating the lysosomal function and for the identification of cathepsin D substrates. Role of cathepsin-mediated proteolysis in cancer development and progression, and as prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target.

2. Autophagy and Disease

Regulation and role of autophagy-mediated macromolecular turnover in cancer development and progression (stemness, dormancy, invasion and metastasis, chemoresistance) and in anti-tumor drugs. Role of autophagy in neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Neuropituitary Diabetes Insipidus, Parkinson's Disease). Epigenetic regulation of autophagy by natural bioactive substances.

3. Nanotheranostics

Use of functionalized nanoparticles for imaging and therapy in tumor pathologies. Testing of Biocompatibility and Cytotoxicity of Nanotheranostics. Endocytosis, intracellular trafficking and exocytosis, degradation of nanoparticles.

Keywords

Autophagy, cancer, lysosome, cell metabolism, tumor microenvironment 

PubMed