Ricerc@Sapienza

I have a background in innate immunity and in cellular/molecular biology. I am interested in molecular mechanisms controlling the induction/reversal of Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) and fibrosis. In particular, I focused my investigation in the role of both extracellular mediators and biomechanical/biophisical cues in the induction of cellular plasticity and signalling pathways implicated. I recently studied the interplay between Caveolin1, a plasma membrane mechanotransducer,  and YAP/TAZ, effectors of a main biomechanical pathway, in the induction of peritoneal fibrosis.

I am presently involved in research projects related to biomechanical regulation of EMT and to the control of EMT induction/reversal by epigenetic factors. Moreover, I am interested in the role of infections in the modulation of epithelial cell plasticity.