Applications of Bio and nanomaterials for human health

Research topics

Cancer Targeted Therapies

The molecular mechanisms governing cancer development and progression form the basis for targeted therapies. The research group leverages approaches encompassing functional genomics, cellular biology, and drug development to prioritize key target proteins. In collaboration with the National Cancer Institute, led by Prof. Vincenzo Canzonieri, the focus lies in the functional characterization of novel therapeutic opportunities for patients with ovarian and colon cancer. Patient-derived cancer organoids, microfluidic technology for ex vivo body-on-chip experiments, and animal models are employed to define novel and repurposed drugs tailored to individual patients.

BioNanoMaterials for Cancer Therapies

The group addresses challenges faced by preclinical or clinical grade drugs concerning solubility, efficacy, and toxicity. Nanotechnologies offer a potential solution to enhance drug properties. By utilizing biocompatible materials, new nanopharmaceutical materials are being developed for personalized cancer treatments. Extensive research and definition of novel BioNanoMaterials for direct therapy or drug carriers are ongoing, with the ultimate goal of selectively killing cancer cells while minimizing overall body toxicity.

Self-Therapeutic Nanomaterials

The research group pioneers state-of-the-art smart nanomaterials with self-therapeutic properties, foreseeing a transformation in nanomedicine akin to the revolution witnessed in the fields of  computers and electronics through nanotechnology. Various inorganic and organic materials are being developed and characterized using various tools before their use as medicines. Part of the project focuses on synthesizing patient-specific nanomaterials and developing electrochemical, microfluidics, and optical-based transduction methods as wearable sensing devices for personalized therapy.

Drug Delivery Systems

The group is actively producing drug delivery systems, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and nanocrystals, designed to deliver both novel and clinically established drugs for cancer therapy. Utilizing innovative techniques such as microfluidics and supercritical CO2 processing, we aim to push the boundaries of research and technology in an effort to revolutionize cancer treatment and enhance patient outcomes. The interdisciplinary approach and collaboration with leading cancer institutes, place the group at the forefront of cancer research, committed to translating our findings into improved clinical outcomes for cancer patients globally.