Pharmacological Biomolecular Sciences, Experimental and Clinical
Doctoral programme (PhD)
A.Y. 2022/2023
Study area
Science and Technology
PhD Coordinator
The doctoral programme, a third cycle programme, makes the most of the multidisciplinary knowledge of the teaching staff to train biomedical experts in the most modern aspects of pharmacological research. In particular, the areas of interest are:
? Basic research: the study of key mechanisms and molecules in physiopathological processes to identify new pharmacological targets and/or new markers predictive of disease and therapeutic effectiveness. Research involves: 1) the analysis of molecular and cellular aspects of complex physiological processes, 2) the study of pathogenic mechanisms in diseases, 3) the study of biological markers of use in translation of preclinical research to humans.
? Research applied to the pharmacological-toxicological study of active ingredients: 1) analisi analysis of the activity of active principles, including biological drugs under development or in clinical use, 2) analysis of foods, food supplements and therapeutic plant derivatives, 3) analysis of xenobiotic activity.
? Research applied to the creation of innovative systems for studying pathologies and developing drugs and evaluation of their effects on the population. Basic research on: 1) the development of cellular and animal models also through genetic engineering methodologies, 2) optimising preclinical protocols for simple and complex diseases, including co-morbidities 3) in silico approaches to the study of new drug-toxicology targets, 4) the use of databases and population studies also to assess drug use and outcomes in terms of clinical events.
? Technical-scientific collaboration for revising documentation on active compounds and plant protection products and for drug safety and with other clinical centres.
In conclusion, students will develop competencies applicable to various areas of academic and industrial research, allowing effective ?bench to bed? translation and a multidisciplinary approach essential for public health, with significant socio-economic impact on health.
? Basic research: the study of key mechanisms and molecules in physiopathological processes to identify new pharmacological targets and/or new markers predictive of disease and therapeutic effectiveness. Research involves: 1) the analysis of molecular and cellular aspects of complex physiological processes, 2) the study of pathogenic mechanisms in diseases, 3) the study of biological markers of use in translation of preclinical research to humans.
? Research applied to the pharmacological-toxicological study of active ingredients: 1) analisi analysis of the activity of active principles, including biological drugs under development or in clinical use, 2) analysis of foods, food supplements and therapeutic plant derivatives, 3) analysis of xenobiotic activity.
? Research applied to the creation of innovative systems for studying pathologies and developing drugs and evaluation of their effects on the population. Basic research on: 1) the development of cellular and animal models also through genetic engineering methodologies, 2) optimising preclinical protocols for simple and complex diseases, including co-morbidities 3) in silico approaches to the study of new drug-toxicology targets, 4) the use of databases and population studies also to assess drug use and outcomes in terms of clinical events.
? Technical-scientific collaboration for revising documentation on active compounds and plant protection products and for drug safety and with other clinical centres.
In conclusion, students will develop competencies applicable to various areas of academic and industrial research, allowing effective ?bench to bed? translation and a multidisciplinary approach essential for public health, with significant socio-economic impact on health.
Classi di laurea magistrale - Classes of master's degree:
LM-6 Biologia,
LM-7 Biotecnologie agrarie,
LM-8 Biotecnologie industriali,
LM-9 Biotecnologie mediche, veterinarie e farmaceutiche,
LM-13 Farmacia e farmacia industriale,
LM-17 Fisica,
LM-18 Informatica,
LM-21 Ingegneria biomedica,
LM-41 Medicina e chirurgia,
LM-42 Medicina veterinaria,
LM-55 Scienze cognitive,
LM-60 Scienze della natura,
LM-61 Scienze della nutrizione umana,
LM-69 Scienze e tecnologie agrarie,
LM-70 Scienze e tecnologie alimentari,
LM-75 Scienze e tecnologie per l'ambiente e il territorio,
LM-82 Scienze statistiche,
LM/SNT1 Scienze infermieristiche e ostetriche,
LM/SNT2 Scienze riabilitative delle professioni sanitarie,
LM/SNT3 Scienze delle professioni sanitarie tecniche,
LM/SNT4 Scienze delle professioni sanitarie della prevenzione.
LM-6 Biologia,
LM-7 Biotecnologie agrarie,
LM-8 Biotecnologie industriali,
LM-9 Biotecnologie mediche, veterinarie e farmaceutiche,
LM-13 Farmacia e farmacia industriale,
LM-17 Fisica,
LM-18 Informatica,
LM-21 Ingegneria biomedica,
LM-41 Medicina e chirurgia,
LM-42 Medicina veterinaria,
LM-55 Scienze cognitive,
LM-60 Scienze della natura,
LM-61 Scienze della nutrizione umana,
LM-69 Scienze e tecnologie agrarie,
LM-70 Scienze e tecnologie alimentari,
LM-75 Scienze e tecnologie per l'ambiente e il territorio,
LM-82 Scienze statistiche,
LM/SNT1 Scienze infermieristiche e ostetriche,
LM/SNT2 Scienze riabilitative delle professioni sanitarie,
LM/SNT3 Scienze delle professioni sanitarie tecniche,
LM/SNT4 Scienze delle professioni sanitarie della prevenzione.
Dipartimento di Scienze farmacologiche e biomolecolari - Via G. Balzaretti, 9 - 20133 Milano
- Degree course coordinator: Giuseppe Danilo Norata
[email protected] - Main offices
Dipartimento di Scienze farmacologiche e biomolecolari - Via G. Balzaretti, 9 - 20133 Milano - Degree course website
https://sites.unimi.it/scuolascifarm
| Title | Professor(s) |
|---|---|
| Role of the G protein-coupled receptor GPR17 in rewiring oligodendrocyte lipid metabolism in models of multiple sclerosis
Requirements: Experience in vitro on primary cultures from rat or mouse brain; skills in molecular biology (extraction of nucleic acids, qRT-PCR), immunocytochemistry, immunofluorescence and microscopy; experience in manipulation of rats or mice will be preferred. |
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| Identification of new mechanisms responsible for myelin degeneration in neurodegenerative diseases
Requirements: Experience in vitro on primary cultures from rat or mouse brain; skills in molecular biology (extraction of nucleic acids, qRT-PCR), immunocytochemistry, immunofluorescence and microscopy; experience in manipulation of rats or mice will be preferred. |
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| Familial aggregation of subclinical atherosclerosis: relationships among markers of subclinical atherosclerosis in first-degree relatives including grandparents, parents, children, and siblings (including monozygotic and dizygotic twins)
Requirements: Good knowledge of the main computer applications. Appreciated but not indispensable requirement: basis of statistics and epidemiology. |
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| Characterization of subclinical atherosclerosis in the diabetic patient: specific differences in various biomarkers of organ damage and endothelial dysfunction between type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients
Requirements: Good knowledge of the main computer applications. Appreciated but not indispensable requirement: basis of statistics and epidemiology. |
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| Study the mechanisms of epigenetic reprogramming elicited by triglycerides and lipoproteins remnant cholesterol.
Requirements: Scientific degree, knowledge in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism. Basic of genetics, genomics and molecular biology. Basic experience with cell culture. |
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| Study of “omic” markers to build-up personalized predictive scores of cardiovascular risk.
Requirements: Basic scientific knowledge in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism. basic of genetics, genomics and molecular biology. Attitude to in silico methodologies (basic knowledge of statistics). |
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| Study the innate immune reactions to lipid nutrients: unveiling a gut-liver-bone marrow axis
Requirements: Basic scientific knowledge of lipid metabolism; basic knowledge of innate immunity and granulocytes. Basic experience of flow-cytometry and handling of tissues from mice models. Attitude to general experimental protocols of laboratory. |
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| The “quadripartite synapse” in 3D an in-vitro model, the Nichoid, to study synapse function and dysfunction
Requirements: Good knowledge of the basic techniques of molecular and cellular biology and skills in routine chemical and biochemical methods in the lab (pcr, western blot, titrations, solutions). Possibly ability to work with animals. |
|
| SIMBA2, the JNK3 selective inhibitor peptide, as a new tool against Alzheimer disease
Requirements: Good knowledge of the basic techniques of molecular and cellular biology and skills in routine chemical and biochemical methods in the lab (pcr, western blot, titrations, solutions). Possibly ability to work with animals. |
|
| JNK3 as a peripheric biomarker of brain dysfunction in the olfactory mucosa, plasma and saliva
Requirements: Good knowledge of the basic techniques of molecular and cellular biology and skills in routine chemical and biochemical methods in the lab (pcr, western blot, titrations, solutions). Possibly ability to work with animals. |
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| Hippocampal neurons and astrocytes on biomorphic engineering systems
Requirements: Good knowledge of the basic techniques of molecular and cellular biology and skills in routine chemical and biochemical methods in the lab (pcr, western blot, titrations, solutions). Possibly ability to work with animals. |
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| The retina as a window on the brain parenchyma to study neurodegenerative diseases
Requirements: Good knowledge of the basic techniques of molecular and cellular biology and skills in routine chemical and biochemical methods in the lab (pcr, western blot, titrations, solutions). Possibly ability to work with animals. |
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| Investigation of the neuro-metabolic dysfunctions in an experimental model of anorexia nervosa
Requirements: Expertise in gene (mRNA extraction, real-time PCR) and protein expression (subcellular fraction extraction, western blot, ELISA) studies. Basic expertise in animal manipulation. |
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| Unveiling the neurobiological mechanisms of ketamine: from antidepressant to addictive effects
Requirements: Expertise in gene (real-time PCR) and protein (western blot, ELISA) expression studies and in animal manipulation. Expertise in basic morphological dendritic spine analyses using confocal microscopy. |
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| Environmental factors and psychiatric disorders: from susceptibility to treatment
Requirements: Expertise in mRNA extraction and analysis (RT- real time PCR), protein extraction and analysis (western blot, ELISA). |
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| Identification of critical windows of vulnerability for psychiatric disorders through the pharmacological modulation of the serotonergic system
Requirements: Expertise in mRNA extraction and analysis (RT- real time PCR), protein extraction and analysis (western blot, ELISA). |
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| Lecithin: cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) deficiency: disease natural history and new pharmacological approaches.
Requirements: Laboratory experience: biochemical analyses, electrophoretic techniques, cellular and animal studies. |
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| Brain cholesterol esterification in neurodegenerative disorders.
Requirements: Laboratory experience: biochemical analyses, electrophoretic techniques, cellular studies. |
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| Identification of the role of PCSK9 in platelet hyperreactivity.
Requirements: Expertise in cell and molecular biology, flow cytometry and (confocal) microscopy is an advantage for the position. Attitude to work both independently and as part of a team. Specific expertise in the field of cardiovascular diseases will represent a significant add-on to the candidate’s CV. |
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| Dissecting the mechanisms responsible for platelet heterogeneity
Requirements: Expertise in cell and molecular biology, flow cytometry and (confocal) microscopy is an advantage for the position. Attitude to work both independently and as part of a team. Specific expertise in the field of cardiovascular diseases will represent a significant add-on to the candidate’s CV. |
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| Studying the impact of nanoplastic exposure on the hypothalamic mechanisms of puberty onset by applying tailored in vitro and in vivo models.
Requirements: Good theoretical and practical knowledge of the principles and techniques related to the use of immortalized cell lines and animal models for the study of the neuroendocrine axis. |
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| Combining in vitro with in vivo models to study the epigenetic control of CHD7 for the identification of novel pharmacological targets for the cure of chromatinopaties.
Requirements: Good knowledge of principles and techniques of cellular, molecular and developmental biology. |
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| Functional characterization of a new gene in the control of brain permeability and in the regulation of puberty.
Requirements: The candidate should have good knowledge of neurobiology and related techniques. Laboratory experience in histology is preferable. |
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| Exploring a novel genetic correlation between autism and GnRH deficiency by applying in vitro and in vivo models.
Requirements: The candidate should have good knowledge of developmental neurobiology principles and techniques. Laboratory experience in histology is preferable. |
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| Alterations of mitochondrial activity in patients with heart failure
Requirements: Highly motivated person with a clear interest in mechanisms of heart failure. Be available to spend few months abroad. The knowledge of few techniques of molecular biology is required. |
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| Characterization and functionality of extracellular vesicles in subjects with heart failure
Requirements: Highly motivated person with a clear interest in mechanisms of heart failure. Be available to spend few months abroad. The knowledge of few techniques of molecular biology is required. |
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| Metabolomic and lipidomic approaches to study pathologies characterized by metabolic dysfunction.
Requirements: Knowledge of lipid, glucose and amino acid metabolism. Quantitative analyses by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry of metabolites involved in different metabolic pathways. Metabolic flux analysis |
D. Caruso
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| Targeted and untargeted metabolomic and lipidomic approaches for the biochemical characterization of food and matrices of natural origin
Requirements: Knowledge of lipid metabolism. Qualitative and quantitative analyses by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry of metabolites involved in biochemical processes. |
D. Caruso
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| Familial hypercholesterolemia, clinical and genetic studies
Requirements: Knowledge in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism, basic of genetics and DNA molecular biology. |
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| Evaluation of polypharmacy in elderly patients and potential for a deprescribing approach (Ex DM 352/2022)
Requirements: Knowledge of pharmacology, and of how to interrogate databases, skills in building and running a database. |
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| Stress and psychopathology: Role of Immune System and Gut microbiome Interplay.
Requirements: Animal manipulations, knowledge of behavioral analyses for studying animal models to psychiatric disorders; basic knowledge of molecular and cellular biology methodologies. |
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| Peripheral blood signatures associated with response to antipsychotic drugs in bipolar patients.
Requirements: Blood samples management and processing, basic knowledge of molecular and cellular biology methodologies. |
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| Peripheral blood mechanisms in adolescents characterized for childhood trauma and for depressive symptoms.
Requirements: Blood samples management and processing, basic knowledge of molecular and cellular biology methodologies. |
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| The gut-brain axis in the development of multiple sclerosis and related trigeminal pain and its modulation with purple corn-derived nutraceuticals.
Requirements: Previous laboratory experience in pharmacology, biochemistry and molecular biology and, preferably, in in vivo preclinical and behavioral studies. Specific expertise in the field of basic mechanisms of pain is not mandatory, although it may represent a significant add-on to the candidate’s CV. |
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| Gender differences in the development of multiple sclerosis and related trigeminal pain: role of glial purinergic receptors.
Requirements: Previous laboratory experience in pharmacology, biochemistry and molecular biology and, preferably, in in vivo preclinical and behavioral studies. Specific expertise in the field of basic mechanisms of pain is not mandatory, although it may represent a significant add-on to the candidate’s CV. |
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| In vitro and in vivo evaluation of the role of Vanin-1 enzyme in neuroinflammation and in autoimmune disorders of the central nervous system.
Requirements: Previous laboratory experience in pharmacology, biochemistry, molecular biology and, preferably, in setting and maintenance of cell cultures in vitro and in in vivo behavioral studies. |
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| Peripheral adenosine receptors as novel biomarkers to predict the phenoconversion from REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) to Parkinson’s Disease.
Requirements: Previous laboratory experience in pharmacology, biochemistry and molecular biology. Specific expertise in the field of purinergic transmission is not mandatory, although it may represent a significant add-on to the candidate’s CV. |
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| Interplay between lipoprotein metabolism and microbiota in atherosclerosis development.
Requirements: Knowledge of the use of animal models, expertise in DNA and RNA extraction, PCR and qPCR analyses, protein extraction and analysis (Western blot, ELISA) |
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| Study of the pathophysiology of the arterial vessels in animal models through “omics” approaches.
Requirements: Knowledge of the use of animal models, expertise in DNA and RNA extraction, PCR and qPCR analyses, protein extraction and analysis (Western blot, ELISA) |
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| Patient-derived EVs for cancer-specific targeting of RNA drugs
Requirements: Technical skills: basic molecular and cellular biology, fluorescent and bioluminescent reporter systems, laboratory animal handling; Office package and statistic programs |
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| Innovative tools based on non-invasive optical imaging for combined pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics studies of RNA drugs
Requirements: Technical skills: basic molecular and cellular biology, fluorescent and bioluminescent reporter systems, laboratory animal handling; Office package and statistic programs |
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| RNA drugs as anti-infective agents for the treatment of the SARS
Requirements: Technical skills: basic molecular and cellular biology, fluorescent and bioluminescent reporter systems, laboratory animal handling; Office package and statistic programs |
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| The role of hypoglycaemic drugs in treating neuropsychiatric disorders: evidence-based and pharmacoepidemiologic approaches for supporting the clinical practice
Requirements: Pharmacology and Pharmacovigilance basic skills, Bibliographic searching basic skills, good knowledge of statistical analysis software e.g., R, SPSS, SAS. |
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| New pharmacological approaches to understand the molecular basis and treatment of iatrogenic obesity.
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular and cell biology (RT-PCR; primary and cell line cultures), biochemistry (western blotting) and histology (histochemistry, immunofluorescence). |
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| Evaluation of the impact of specific nutritional approaches and fasting-mimetic drugs on tumor metabolism, immune surveillance and chemotherapy efficacy
Requirements: Knowledge of biochemical cellular and molecular biology techniques |
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| Study of the role of membrane lipids and lipid metabolism in chemo resistance by biochemical and biophysical approaches
Requirements: Knowledge of biochemical cellular and molecular biology techniques |
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| Aging versus inflamm-aging: cellular senescence and inflammation as risk factors for cardiovascular diseases
Requirements: We look for a highly motivated person who is interested in cell biology and in the study of the effects of cellular senescence on the induction of a low-grade inflammation (inflammaging) that could favor cardiovascular diseases. The candidate should carry on independently her/his research project and have a good attitude to working in team with other lab members. Expertise in cellular and molecular biology are appreciated but not mandatory. |
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| Environmental pollutants and diseases: the smoke of the new tobacco products as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
Requirements: We look for a highly motivated person who is interested in cell biology and in the study of the effects of the new tobacco smoking devices on the atherogenic process. The candidate should carry on independently her/his research project and have a good attitude to working in team with other lab members. Expertise in cellular and molecular biology are appreciated but not mandatory. |
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| Effect of naive or pharmacologically-modified extracellular vesicles in in vitro models to find novel treatments for oncological and cardiovascular pathologies.
Requirements: Theoretical knowledge in the field of extracellular vesicles, lipids, tumors and cardiovascular diseases, good lab practice (in vitro models, lipid analysis, ultracentrifugation, chromatography), team working capacities. |
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| Study of selective histone deacetylase inhibitors and role in the regulation of metabolism in physiology and pathological states
Requirements: Principles of energy metabolism, analysis of metabolic regulation using genomic and metabolomic methodologies. Knowledge of cell types found in adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and liver. Understanding of bioinformatics methodologies for analysis of data from omics approaches. |
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| Epigenetic regulation of adipose tissue metabolism in obesity and type 2 diabetes
Requirements: Knowledge of energy metabolism, analysis of histone code with genomic and proteomic approaches and transcriptional regulation. Knowledge of cellular subsets in adipose tissues, of functions of immune cells infiltrating adipose tissue and of metabolic differences between sexes. Understanding of bioinformatic approaches for analyses of omics data. |
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| The spreading of Tar-DNA-bindig protein 43 (TDP-43) aggregates.
Requirements: Good Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques. Good background in neuroscience. Interest for working with cellular models. |
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| Extracellular Vesicles in the pathogenesis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Dementia
Requirements: Good Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques. Good background in neuroscience. Interest for working with cellular models |
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| Molecular mechanisms of repeat expansion diseases: the role of CHIP protein.
Requirements: Good Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques. Interest and aptitude for molecular and cellular studies in the neuroscience field. |
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| The role of chaperone mediated autophagy (CMA) in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Spinal and Bulbar Muscular Atrophy.
Requirements: Good Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques. Interest and aptitude for molecular and cellular studies in the neuroscience field. |
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| Identification of new factors and pathways of adipose tissue thermogenesis
Requirements: Principles of energy metabolism, analysis of metabolic pathways and regulation using advanced biochemical methods and omics approaches. Knowledge of gene silencing and overexpression |
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| Deciphering the role of the mitochondrial regulator Zc3h10 in monocyte-macrophages
Requirements: Knowledge in biochemistry, energy metabolism, and quantitative analysis by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry of metabolites involved in different metabolic pathways. Metabolic flux analysis. Gene expression analysis. |
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| Identification of novel targets and therapeutic strategies against persistence of hepatitis B virus.
Requirements: Solid experience in standard laboratory techniques of cell culture and molecular biology; construction and preparation of viral vectors, viral infectivity and viral pseudotype assays. Previous experience in BSL3 environment. |
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| Functional characterization of SARS-CoV-2 non-structural proteins and development of assays to support the identification of broad-spectrum anti-coronavirus agents.
Requirements: Experience in standard laboratory techniques of cell culture and molecular biology; basic microscopy techniques; construction of viral vectors; viral infectivity assays. Previous experience in BSL3 environment. |
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| Identification of anti-infective agents with low susceptibility to resistance evolution.
Requirements: Experience in standard laboratory techniques of mammalian and bacterial cell culture; basic molecular biology; basic microscopy; construction of viral vectors; infectivity assays. Previous experience in BSL2 or BSL3 environment. |
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| Botanicals and gastric inflammation: anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects in human gastric epithelial cells infected with Helicobacter pylori
Requirements: Competences in the extract preparation from plant material, bio-guided fractionation, cultivation and manipulation of eukaryotic cell cultures, cultivation of H. pylori, transient transfections, ELISA, extraction of RNA and real time PCR, western blotting, routine biochemical assays, methods to study bacteria-eukaryote interactions. |
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| Botanicals with anti-inflammatory activity in skin diseases
Requirements: Expertise related to extracts preparation from natural source, bio-guided fractionation, cell culture, transient transfections, ELISA, real time RT-PCR, use of LC-MS/MS instruments. |
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| Biomarkers and liquid biopsy for neuro-oncological diseases. Perspectives for precision medicine
Requirements: Basic research track record. Scientific production in the field of clinical and basic research neuro-oncology |
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| Soma to synapse: the inverse communication ruling plasticity at specific synapses
Requirements: Knowledge and a genuine interest in neuroscience; experience in performing laboratory work independently; good collaborative and social skills and an open-minded mind-set. |
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| Dissecting the physiopathological role of Rabphilin-3A at excitatory glutamatergic synapses.
Requirements: Knowledge and a genuine interest in neuroscience; good collaborative and social skills and an open-minded mind-set. |
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| Learning to make decisions from others: dissecting the neural circuits underlying observational learning of prosocial and antisocial behaviors.
Requirements: Knowledge and a genuine interest in neuroscience; good collaborative and social skills and an open-minded mind-set. |
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| Development of in silico strategies for the optimization of monoclonal antibodies with particular attention to the role of N-glycosylation.
Requirements: Knowledge of structural bioinformatics and molecular modeling techniques, with particular attention to monoclonal antibodies. |
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| Application of molecular modeling methods based both on classical and innovative approaches to investigate the transport mechanism of transmembrane transporters.
Requirements: Knowledge of structural bioinformatics and molecular modeling techniques, with particular attention to membrane transporters. |
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| Repeated exposure to the psychostimulant cocaine during adolescence: behavioral and molecular correlates
Requirements: Expertise in gene and protein expression studies. Expertise in basic morphological dendritic spine analyses using confocal microscopy |
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| Early life social experiences and dysregulation of the brain reward system: The role of endocannabinoid transmission
Requirements: Expertise in mRNA extraction and analysis (RT- real time PCR), protein extraction and analysis (western blot, ELISA). |
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| Evaluation of oligodendrocyte-immune cells interactions on myelin regeneration in neurological disorders.
Requirements: previous laboratory experience in pharmacology, biochemistry and molecular biology, cell culture, and, possibly on manipulation of rodents. Specific expertise in the field of neurodegenerative diseases may represent a significant add-on to the candidate’s CV. |
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| Oligodendrocyte dysfunction in experimental models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic perspectives
Requirements: previous laboratory experience in pharmacology, biochemistry and molecular biology, cell culture, and, possibly on in vivo manipulation of rodents. Specific expertise in the field of neurodegenerative diseases may represent a significant add-on to the candidate’s CV. |
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| Protein quality control and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: focus on the role of the heat shock protein HSPB8 with in vivo studies.
Requirements: Basic knowledge of rodent manipulation and molecular biology techniques. High motivation for research. |
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| Role of altered skeletal muscle function in motor neuron diseases.
Requirements: Basic knowledge of cellular and molecular biology techniques. High motivation for research. |
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| The Role of microRNA in the immunity response regulation induced by contact and respiratory allergens
Requirements: Previous laboratory experience based on in vitro cellular studies. Basic knowledge of cellular and molecular biology techniques. High motivation for research. |
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| Identification of pharmacological approaches blocking alpha-synuclein synaptic toxicity in experimental models of Parkinson’s disease
Requirements: Knowledge and a genuine interest in neuroscience; good collaborative and social skills and an open-minded mind-set. |
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| Dissecting the role of GluA3-containing AMPA receptors in Frontotemporal Dementia
Requirements: Knowledge and a genuine interest in neuroscience; good collaborative and social skills and an open-minded mind-set. |
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| Brain circuits of decision-making in an animal model of Alzheimer’s disease
Requirements: Knowledge and a genuine interest in neuroscience; good collaborative and social skills and an open-minded mind-set. |
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| Post-SSRI sexual dysfunction: role of the neurotransmitters and of the steroidogenesis in peripheral glands, colon and nervous system.
Requirements: Knowledge of mass spectrometry and molecular biology techniques to be applied in the field of steroids and neurotransmitters |
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| Cognitive impairment associated with diabetes mellitus: role of sex steroids and neurosteroids
Requirements: Knowledge of mass spectrometry and molecular biology techniques to be applied in the field of steroids and neurotransmitters |
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| Genetic and acquired lysosomal acid lipase deficiencies: impact on the immune system
Requirements: Knowledge of biochemical, cellular and molecular biology techniques |
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| modulation of cancer cell viability by high density lipoproteins: from molecular mechanisms to therapeutic applications
Requirements: Knowledge of biochemical, cellular and molecular biology techniques |
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| Interaction between air pollution and cardioprotection by high density lipoproteins
Requirements: Knowledge of biochemical, cellular and molecular biology techniques |
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| Identification and characterization of predictive biomarkers to empowering the progression risk of cerebral amyloid angiopathy
Requirements: Experience in the field of molecular and cellular biology techniques |
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| Characterization of the aggrephagy pathway’s activation in a vacuolar myopathy caused mutations in PLIN4 gene to identify therapeutic strategies
Requirements: Experience in the field of immunohistochemistry, molecular and cellular biology techniques applied to muscle diseases |
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| Evaluation of new peripheral biomarkers to improve the clinical diagnosis and to monitor disease progression in sporadic and genetic FTD-ALS.
Requirements: Elinical experience in phenotypic analysis of patients and evaluation of genomic biomarkers |
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| Plant-derived extracellular vesicles as dietary components with anti-inflammatory activity
Requirements: Experience in pharmacognosy and processing of plant tissues; experience in cell cultures; skills in molecular biology (extraction of nucleic acids, qRT-PCR), immunocytochemistry, immunofluorescence and microscopy; experience in manipulation of rats or mice will be preferred. |
|
| Identification of active RNA drugs in models of neurodegenerative diseases
Requirements: Experience in the neuroscience field; experience in vitro on primary cultures from rat or mouse brain; skills in molecular biology (extraction of nucleic acids, qRT-PCR), bioinformatics and sequence analysis; experience in manipulation of rats or mice |
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| Vestibular Schwannoma and sensory hearing impairment: physiopathology of Schwann cells and impact of environmental factor
Requirements: Set up of primary glial and neuronal cell culture (dorsal root ganglia sensory neurons, Schwann cells, satellite cells, etc.) and vestibular schwannoma cell lines. Expertise in “in vitro” myelination model, set-up for variable electromagnetic fields exposure, cytofluorimetry, immunocytochemistry, imaging (CLSM, morphometric analysis, EM, etc.), bioinformatics (wide genome screening and transcriptomic profile). |
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| GABA dynamic in Schwann cells and peripheral nervous system: impact on demyelinating diseases and neuropathic pain
Requirements: Set up primary glial and neuronal cell culture (dorsal root ganglia sensory neurons, Schwann cells, satellite cells, etc.). Expertise in “in vitro” myelination model, cytofluorimetry, qRT-PCR, imaging (CLSM, morphometric analysis, EM, etc.), bioinformatics and basic electrophysiologic techniques. |
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| PKC-epsilon role and possible therapeutic approach of neuropathic pain
Requirements: Set up of primary glial and neuronal cell culture (dorsal root ganglia sensory neurons, Schwann cells, satellite cells, etc.). Expertise in “in vitro” myelination model, cytofluorimetry, qRT-PCR, imaging (CLSM, morphometric analysis, EM, etc.), bioinformatics |
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| Assessing the biological activity of plant extracts from biomasses from agri-food waste with innovative and sustainable methods: relevance to cardiometabolic health
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular pathophysiology in the cardiometabolic area, experience in research laboratory (cell / molecular biology), strong motivation for research and team building skills |
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| Proteomic approaches in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease prevention: application of mass spectrometry technologies and artificial intelligence/machine learning strategies
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular pathophysiology in the cardiometabolic area, experience in translational research laboratory, strong research motivation and team building skills |
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| Metabolomic analysis for prevention and early diagnosis of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases with innovative technologies and artificial intelligence / machine learning approaches
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular pathophysiology in the cardiometabolic area, experience in translational research laboratory, strong research motivation and team building skills |
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| Epigenetic analysis for the prevention and early identification of cardio-metabolic diseases: use of innovative technologies and artificial intelligence / machine learning strategies
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular pathophysiology in the cardiometabolic area, experience in translational research laboratory, strong research motivation and team building skills |
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| Towards a cure for AIDS: Characterization of the HIV latent reservoir and immune response in ART-treated HIV(+) patients. (Ex DM 352/2022)
Requirements: Interest in the area of immunology and infectious diseases. Experience in standard techniques of cell culture and flow cytometry. Previous experience in BSL3 laboratory. |
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| Study of the molecular and cellular mechanisms responsible for the incomplete immune reconstitution in HIV(+) patients on antiretroviral therapy.
Requirements: Interest in the area of virology and immunology. Experience in standard techniques of cell culture and molecular biology. Basic knowledge of Flow cytometry and sorting techniques. |
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| Analysis of the crosstalk between ADAM10 and the NMDA receptor subunit GluN2A in synaptic plasticity phenomena.
Requirements: We look for a highly motivated person who is really interested in neurobiology and generally in neuroscience. Expertise in cellular and molecular biology is appreciated. |
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| Deciphering the cross-talk between the microtubule-associated protein Tau and the actin binding protein CAP2 in Alzheimer's Disease pathogenesis.
Requirements: We look for a highly motivated person who is really interested in neurobiology and generally in neuroscience. Expertise in cellular and molecular biology is appreciated. |
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| Identification of stress pathways triggered by RNA-based drugs
Requirements: The candidate must have a good knowledge of cell culture techniques, flow cytometric analysis, and of the most common molecular biology techniques. |
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| Development of an integrated strategy for the identification of environmental contaminants through the application of Novel Approach Methodologies (NAM)
Requirements: Good knowledge of the mechanisms of neurotoxicity and toxicity Technical and laboratory skills related to analysis methods such as spectrofluorimetry, cell viability assays, immunoenzymatic techniques, molecular biology and protein analysis, microscopy techniques Laboratory skills and techniques related to cell culture methods of stabilized and primary cell cultures. |
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| Post-finasteride syndrome: role of the neurotransmitters and of the steroidogenesis in peripheral glands, colon and nervous system.
Requirements: knowledge of mass spectrometry and molecular biology techniques to be applied in the field of steroids and neurotransmitters. |
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| Steroid environment in colitis-induced depression: focus on gut and brain steroidogenesis and impact of sex
Requirements: knowledge of mass spectrometry and molecular biology techniques to be applied in the field of steroids and neurotransmitters. |
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| Unravelling the role of the novel mitochondrial regulator Zc3h10 in diabetes.
Requirements: Gene expression analysis and regulation. Energy metabolism. Quantitative analyses by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry of metabolites involved in different metabolic pathways. Metabolic flux analysis. |
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| Systematic characterization of mitochondrial regulators in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Requirements: knowledge in biochemistry, energy metabolism, and quantitative analysis by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry of metabolites involved in different metabolic pathways. Metabolic flux analysis. Gene expression analysis. |
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| Gene silencing of ATP-Citrate Lyase (ACLY) to control the development of metabolic syndrome, obesity, and atherosclerosis
Requirements: Expertise in gene and protein expression. Basal expertise in laboratory technique for the study of metabolic disorders and mouse animal models handling. |
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| Immunometabolic role of Angptl3
Requirements: Expertise in gene and protein expression. Basal expertise in laboratory technique for the study of metabolic disorders, immunometabolism and mouse animal models handling. |
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| Study of cellular immunotherapy in humanized models of atherosclerosis
Requirements: Expertise in gene and protein expression. Basal expertise in laboratory technique for the study of metabolic disorders, immunometabolism and mouse animal models handling. |
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| Unveiling the role of hepatic mitochondrial dynamism on liver metabolism and dietary lipid absorption.
Requirements: Basal expertise in laboratory technique for the study of metabolic disorders and mouse animal models handling. Expertise in the analysis of histological tissue with immunohistochemistry technique |
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| Evaluation of the mechanisms of biological efficacy and antibiotic association for the best outcome of a bioceramic cranioplastic implant
Requirements: Expertise in pharmacology, from biomolecular sciences to clinical and epidemiological applications. |
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| Use of OMICs integrated approaches for the study of immunometabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease
Requirements: Advanced informatic and statistical expertise for the analysis of bulk data. Advance use of R, IPA and software for the pathways analysis of proteomics and transcriptomics data. |
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| HDL role in acute coronary syndrome: from molecular mechanisms towards new therapeutic target discovery
Requirements: Laboratory experience: biochemical analyses, electrophoretic techniques, cellular studies. |
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| ANGPTL3 deficiency: from genetics towards pharmacological targets
Requirements: Laboratory experience: biochemical analyses, electrophoretic techniques, cellular and animal studies. |
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| Exploring the muscle-to-pancreas crosstalk to uncover molecules that regulate β-cell function and mass
Requirements: Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology, fluorescence microscopy techniques, animal models of diseases, 3D cultures and microfluidic. |
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| Identification of new signaling pathways controlling the neuroinflammatory response in Parkinson’s Disease.
Requirements: Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology, fluorescence microscopy, electrophysiology and ion imaging techniques, experience on animal models of diseases and/or induced pluripotent stem cells. |
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| Protective mechanisms against neurotoxic proteins in motoneuron diseases.
Requirements: Good knowledge of basic neuroscience and motor neuron diseases. Interest and aptitude for molecular and cellular studies in cells and animal models. |
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| Novel strategies to block toxicity of the mutant Androgen Receptor in SBMA.
Requirements: Good knowledge of basic neuroscience and motor neuron diseases. Interest and aptitude for molecular and cellular studies in cells and animal models. |
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| Novel strategies to block RAN translation of the expanded G4C2 of the C9ORF72 gene mutated in ALS
Requirements: Good knowledge of basic neuroscience and motor neuron diseases. Interest and aptitude for molecular and cellular studies in cells and animal models. |
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| The role of immune mechanisms during adolescence in mediating the link between early life stress exposure and mood disorders.
Requirements: Animal manipulations, knowledge of behavioral analyses for studying animal models to psychiatric disorders; Knowledge of basic molecular biology methodologies, such as real time PCR, transcriptomics, and immunohistochemistry |
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| Boosting resilience during adolescence to prevent psychopathologies following exposure to adverse events during pregnancy.
Requirements: Animal manipulations, knowledge of behavioral analyses for studying animal models to psychiatric disorders; basic knowledge of molecular biology methodologies, such as real time PCR, protein analysis as well as of immunocytochemistry. |
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| Identification of brain circuits and mechanisms responsible for stress vulnerability across different life stages: toward the development of novel therapeutic strategies for psychiatric disorders.
Requirements: Animal manipulations, knowledge of behavioral analyses for studying animal models to psychiatric disorders; Knowledge of basic molecular biology methodologies, such as real time PCR and transcriptomics as well as of brain imaging. |
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| Development and characterization of novel two-hit experimental models for better understanding the vulnerability to psychopathologies.
Requirements: Animal manipulations, knowledge of behavioral analyses for studying animal models to psychiatric disorders; basic knowledge of molecular and cellular biology methodologies. |
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| Targeting the FGF23-Klotho axis for diagnostics of microgravity induced osteoporosis on ISS
Requirements: Knowledge of biochemical cellular and molecular biology techniques |
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| Role of omega-3 fatty acids in the development and adjuvant therapy of chronic-degenerative diseases
Requirements: Knowledge of biochemical cellular and molecular biology techniques |
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| Impact of air pollution on atherosclerosis: role of extracellular vesicles
Requirements: Highly motivated person with a clear interest in the field of pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. Be available to spend few months abroad. The knowledge of techniques of molecular biology is required. |
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| Diabetes and atherosclerosis: evaluation of extracellular vesicles and mitochondrial activity
Requirements: Highly motivated person with a clear interest in the field of pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. Be available to spend few months abroad. The knowledge of techniques of molecular biology is required. |
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| Molecular mechanisms of lysosomal damage in neurodegenerative diseases
Requirements: Good Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques. Good preparation in the neuroscience field. Curriculum: P. |
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| Autophagy in polyglutamine diseases: from mechanism to therapeutic approaches
Requirements: Good Knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques. Good preparation in the neuroscience field. |
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| Identification of chronic pain as a risk factor for developing frailty in ageing. Experimental and clinical study
Requirements: The student should be ready to evaluate complex behaviors in vivo in mice. Moreover, he/she must have basic knowledge of biochemical and molecular biology techniques. |
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| Identification of neuroinflammation as common substrate to neurological side effects of chemotherapeutic drugs in mouse models.
Requirements: The student should be ready to perform behavioral experiments with mice in vivo. He/She should have basic knowledge of primary cultures and of biochemical and molecular biology methods. |
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| Endometriosis pain : novel therapeutical targets
Requirements: The candidate will take part in a multidisciplinary group that works on pain in women. He/She should have basic knowledge of laboratory methods and be available to work with preclinical models of endometriosis in mice. |
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| Effect of phthalate exposure during adolescence as trigger for Crohn disease
Requirements: Highly motivated person, the candidate should work with preclinical models of disease and possess knowledge of methods for gene and protein expression evaluation. |
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| Ethnopharmacological study on the biological properties of plants and their preparations traditionally used in specific geographical or cultural contexts.
Requirements: Competences in the preparation of plant extracts, bio-guided fractionation, use of eukaryotic cell cultures, transient transfections, ELISA, real time PCR, western blotting, use of analytical instruments. |
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| Evaluation of botanicals in the intestine: permeability and anti-inflammatory activity.
Requirements: Competences in the preparation of plant extracts, bio-guided fractionation, use of eukaryotic cell cultures, transient transfections, ELISA, real time PCR, western blotting, use of analytical instruments. |
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| Evaluation of the effects of myocardial infarction on neuro-inflammation and cognitive decline.
Requirements: The candidate should have an interest in cardio- and cerebrovascular science and experience in molecular and cellular biology as well as immunohistochemistry. Experience with in-vivo models is preferred. |
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| Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) as a novel target for therapy of brain and heart ischemia
Requirements: The candidate should have an interest in cardio- and cerebrovascular science and experience in molecular and cellular biology as well as immunohistochemistry. Experience with in-vivo models is preferred. |
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| Development of an innovative screening approach based on a cell envelope stress reporter assay in Escherichia coli to identify envelope-specific antibacterials from natural sources.
Requirements: Knowledge and familiarity with basic microbiology techniques, bacterial genetics, and molecular biology (molecular cloning, SDS-PAGE, immunoblotting techniques). |
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| Synthesis, molecular characterization, and optimization of chimeric derivatives of the antimicrobial peptide thanatin, for the development of inhibitors to prevent Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.
Requirements: Knowledge of basic microbiology techniques, bacterial genetics, and molecular biology. Willingness to carry out part of the activity in the laboratory of Inorganic Chemistry at DISFARM (Unimi). |
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| Assessment of extracts from agrofood production waste and from sustainable activities for short chain production of bioactive components: validation of biomolecular aspects with health value (Ex DM 352/2022)
Requirements: Knowledge of molecular pathophysiology in the cardiometabolic area, experience in research laboratory (cell/molecular biology), strong motivation for research and team building skills |
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| Study of the composition and biological activities with health relevance of compounds obtained from vegetable agro-industrial biomasses, obtained and analyzed with sustainable and innovative methodologies (Ex DM 352/2022) | |
| Evaluation of pharmacological mechanisms explaining the improved safety of bioceramic bone implants (Ex DM 352/2022) | |
| Understanding the proatherogenic potential of increased plasma triglycerides: epigenetic effects on cellular inflammation and aging" (Ex DM 352/2022) |
A. Catapano
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| Peripheral mechanisms and biomarkers associated with the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders and with the efficacy of interventions (Ex DM 352/2022) | |
| RNA drugs as anti-infective agents for the treatment of the SARS |
Courses list
January 2023
| Courses or activities | Professor(s) | ECTS | Total hours | Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Experimental Models and Rnaseq Technique to Investigate Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Psychiatric Disorders | 2 | 16 | English | |
| Translational Relevance of Steroid Molecules in Physiology and Diseases | 2 | 16 | English | |
February 2023
| Courses or activities | Professor(s) | ECTS | Total hours | Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Multiomic Approaches to Study Cardiometabolic Disorders. | 2 | 16 | English | |
| Optional | ||||
| Gut Brain- and Liver Brain- Axis: Theoretical and Practical Aspects Related to Metagenomics | 2 | 16 | English | |
April 2023
| Courses or activities | Professor(s) | ECTS | Total hours | Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Basics of Statistics and Applications in Biomedical Research | 2 | 16 | English | |
May 2023
| Courses or activities | Professor(s) | ECTS | Total hours | Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Successful Grant Writing and Preparation | 2 | 16 | English | |
| The Central Role of Metabolism in Health and Disease: Concepts, Omics Approaches, Their Interpretation and Applications | 2 | 16 | English | |
| Viruses, Enemies Or Precious Allies? from the Development of Antiviral Drugs to the Use of Viruses as Therapeutic Agents | 2 | 16 | English | |
June 2023
| Courses or activities | Professor(s) | ECTS | Total hours | Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| 2d and 3d Cell Culture Models to Study Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology | 2 | 16 | English | |
July 2023
| Courses or activities | Professor(s) | ECTS | Total hours | Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Stem Cells in Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology | 2 | 16 | English | |
Following the programme of study
Contacts
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