Research Areas
Vascular Ageing
Our research in Vascular Ageing investigates the molecular and biomechanical mechanisms underlying age-related changes in the vascular system. We are particularly interested in vascular stiffness, endothelial and smooth muscle function, and the development of conditions such as atherosclerosis. Using experimental models, we examine how interventions including calorie restriction and epigenetic regulation may influence vascular ageing and cardiovascular health.
Ageing and Age-Related Diseases
Our work on Ageing and Age-Related Diseases focuses on the molecular mechanisms that shape the ageing process and their relationship with disease development. We investigate changes in gene regulation, epigenetic mechanisms and signalling pathways using molecular and experimental approaches, with the aim of understanding how biological ageing contributes to age-associated dysfunction and disease.
Calorie Restriction
Calorie Restriction is a major focus of our research on ageing and disease. We investigate how reduced caloric intake without malnutrition influences gene expression, epigenetic regulation and cellular signalling pathways. Our studies explore its effects across multiple biological systems, including vascular ageing, metabolic regulation, the gut microbiome, brain-related molecular changes and cancer development.
Aptamers
Aptamers are short, single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules capable of binding specific biological targets with high affinity and selectivity. Our research explores their use as molecular recognition tools in targeted therapeutic systems, controlled drug delivery and biosensor platforms, with particular interest in translating aptamer-based technologies into biomedical applications.
Targeted Drug Delivery
Our research in Targeted Drug Delivery aims to improve therapeutic precision by directing active agents toward specific cells or diseased tissues while reducing exposure to healthy tissues. We develop and investigate delivery strategies incorporating aptamers and nanoparticle-based systems, with applications including vascular disease and other targeted therapeutic approaches.
Biosensors
Our Biosensors and Molecular Diagnostics research focuses on the development of platforms that combine molecular recognition elements, probes and nanomaterials for sensitive and selective detection. These systems are explored for applications including disease-associated biomarkers, molecular diagnostics and the detection of genetic variations such as single-nucleotide polymorphisms.
Cancer Biology
Our research in Cancer Biology investigates the molecular mechanisms involved in cancer initiation and progression, with particular emphasis on gene regulation, epigenetic modifications, microRNAs and cellular signalling pathways. We also examine how metabolic and dietary interventions, including calorie restriction, may influence tumour development and cancer-associated molecular processes.