PERSONAL DATA
- Birth date: January 16th, 1961 - Birth place: Rovigo (Italy)
- Married, one daughter
EDUCATION
- 1980: High School Diploma in Classics, Liceo Ginnasio Statale "Celio", Rovigo
- 1984: Degree in Biological Sciences, University of Ferrara (Final score: 110/110 cum laude)
- 1985: Qualification to practice as a Biologist
- 1991: PhD in Biochemistry, Rome
- Foreign language known: English
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
- 1985-1986: Full Professor of Mathematical, Chemical, Physical and Natural Sciences in Middle School
- 1990-1993: Laboratory Technician VII level, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Ferrara
- 1994-2005: University Researcher of Biochemistry, SSD BIO/10, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara
- 1997: Confirmation in role University Researcher of Biochemistry
- 2005-2021: Associate Professor of Biochemistry, SSD BIO/10, University of Ferrara
- 2008: Confirmation in role Associate Professor of Biochemistry
- Achievement of National Scientific Qualification I Band (2012 session) for the disciplinary sectors:
05/E1 - General Biochemistry and Biochemistry Clinic
05/E2 - Molecular Biology
05/F1 - Applied Biology
PRESENT POSITION: Full Professor of Biochemistry, University of Ferrara; Faculty appointment: Medicine.
INSTITUTIONAL AND SCIENTIFIC TASKS
2001- 2005: Member of the Departmental Commission for the assignment of Research Grants
2004-2012: Member of the Self-Evaluation Unit for the Degree Course in Biotechnology
2011: Coordinator of the Departmental VQR Commission for the “Evaluation of Research Quality
2004-2010” - Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara
2005 - 2024: Member of the Departmental VQR Commission for the “Evaluation of Research Quality (VQR 2004-2010, VQR 2011-2014, VQR 2015-2019 and VQR 2020-2023)
2017: Member of the Commission for the drafting and updating of the Degree Regulations for the Degree Course in Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics
2013 - 2024: Member of the Teaching Commission of the Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics Course of Studies
- Member of the Board of the Center for Electron Microscopy – CME, University of Ferrara
- Member of the Board of Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara
1995 - to date: Head of the CIB Operating Unit, Interuniversity Consortium of Biotechnology
2000 - to date: Member of the Teaching Board of the PhD course in “Molecular Medicine and Pharmacology” (formerly “Molecular Oncology”) later merged into “Medical, Omic and Oncological Sciences” University of Ferrara
2024 - to date: Member of the Teaching Board of the PhD course of National Interest in Life Course Research, University of Florence
2012 - to date: Member and vice president of the Board of the SCR, Italian Society of “Stem Cell Research”
2015 - to date: Member of INNATA “Italian Network of Perinatal Stem Cells”
- Member of the board of StemNet - Federation of Associations on Stem Cell Research
Registered in the ministerial database REPRISE.
TEACHING ACTIVITY
Since 1985, within the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, she has collaborated in the exercises and held integrative seminars for the lessons of Biological Chemistry for the Degree Course in Dentistry, and of Molecular Pathology for the School of Specialization in Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases of the Metabolic Cycle.
From 1997 to today, she has held official positions in the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery and in the Faculty of MM FF NN Sciences, and in Specialization Schools (Medical-Surgical Area, Health Area, teaching of Molecular Biology for the Specialist Degrees in Oncology, Hematology, Dermatology, Pathological Anatomy, Obstetrics and Gynecology).
Main teachings:
1997-2001: Principles of Biochemical Engineering, University Diploma in Agro-industrial Biotechnology, Faculty of Mathematical, Physical, Chemical and Natural Sciences;
-1998-2002: Diagnostic Techniques of Clinical Biochemistry, University Diploma of Biomedical Laboratory Technician, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery;
-1999-2000: Biochemistry II, Experimental Degree Course in Medicine and Surgery;
-2001-2002: Biological Polymers and Industrial Enzymology, Degree Course in Agro-industrial Biotechnology, Faculty of Mathematical, Physical, Chemical and Natural Sciences;
-2001-2005: Biochemistry II, Degree Course in Motor Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery;
-2002-2012: Biochemistry, Interfaculty Degree Course in Biotechnology of the University;
-2005-2012: Biochemistry, Degree Course in Biomedical Laboratory Techniques, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery;
-2012-2013: Structure and functions of biological molecules, Degree Course in Biomedical Laboratory Techniques, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery;
-2015-2016: Biochemistry I, Degree Course in Motor Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery;
-2015-2021: Cellular Biochemistry and Regenerative Medicine, Master's Degree in Biotechnology for the Environment and Health
2013-2020: Molecular Biology, Bachelor's Degree in Motor Sciences (1 CFU)
She currently holds the following courses:
2013 - Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Master's Degree in Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics (7 CFU)
2013 - Molecular Biology, Master's Degree in Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics (2 CFU)
2013 - Molecular Biology/Signal Transduction, Bachelor's Degree in Dental Hygiene (2 CFU)
2019 - Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Master's Degree in Medicine and Surgery (1 CFU)
2022 - Signal Transduction, Master's Degree in Industrial Biotechnology of biopharmaceuticals,
cosmetics and nutraceuticals (3 CFU)
2023 - Advanced cellular therapies, Master's degree in Industrial biotechnology of biopharmaceuticals,cosmetics and nutraceuticals (3 CFU)
- Participation in numerous events for the dissemination of science: “European Researchers' Night”, “UNI Festival”, “Unistem Day”, “Pint of Science”. 2010 – 2013: seminar activity for U.T.E.F., UNIVERSITY FOR PERMANENT EDUCATION, Ferrara. Scientific orientation and dissemination activities in Middle Schools and High Schools of Ferrara, including: Liceo Classico Ariosto of Ferrara (2011, conference entitled: “Fixing bones with biotechnology”), Istituto "F.lli Taddia" of Cento (2014, conference entitled: “Stem cells and regenerative medicine”).
Supervisor of over 100 experimental degree theses from 2000 to today for the degree courses in the Medical, Biomedical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Chemical fields
Counter-supervisor of dozens of degree theses.
Tutor of the following PhD theses:
- PhD in Biochemistry, XII cycle: Letizia Penolazzi: The “decoy” strategy in the modulation of the expression of the human gene for the estrogen receptor alpha in breast cancer cells.
- PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, XVIII cycle: Gian Pietro Schincaglia: Modulation of estrogen receptor alpha expression in human osteoblasts by decoy strategy.
- PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Oncology, XXI cycle: Elisa Tavanti: The regulation of the expression of the gene for the estrogen receptor alpha in human osteoblasts: role of Runx2, AP-1 and NFATc1.
- PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Oncology, XXIII cycle: Elena Torreggiani: Osteogenic differentiation: a novel role of Slug protein.
- PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, XXIII cycle: Renata Vecchiatini: Mesenchymal stem cells from Wharton's Jelly and periodontal ligament: reliable not controversial sources for osteogenic differentiation and regenerative medicine.
- PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Oncology, XXVIII cycle: Andrea Lolli: Validation of the anti-chondrogenic properties of the microRNA-221 and Slug transcription factor by different in vitro and in vivo models: new perspectives for cartilage regeneration.
- PhD in Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, XXIX cycle – supervisor: Marco Angelozzi: Cell-based models for bone and cartilage tissue engineering: in vitro investigations from a biomaterialistic, cellular and molecular perspective.
- PhD in Molecular Medicine and Pharmacology, XXXIII cycle Leticia Scussel Bergamin: Pathophysiology of the P2X7 receptor in the skeleton.
- PhD in Molecular Medicine, XXXVII cycle Maria Pina Notarangelo Counteracting intervertebral disc degeneration: a contribution from the development of Wharton's jelly-based scaffolds and the investigation of the purinergic P2X7 receptor.
SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH ACTIVITY
In the years immediately following graduation, research activity was carried out within the groups coordinated by professors Laura del Senno and Roberto Gambari (Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology – UniFE) until 1993, the year that marked the start of an independent research group that over time became attractive to numerous graduates, scholarship holders and PhD students, and was consolidated in 2007 with the assignment of a Scientific Technician position in the person of Dr. Letizia Penolazzi, now Associate Professor.
- ORCID ID 0000-0003-2663-6210
Scopus ID 57188651022
H-index = 38 (Google Scholar) – 31 (SCOPUS)
She has 172 articles in international peer-review journals, and 3 chapters in international books, hundreds of abstracts at National and International Conferences in which she participates following a selection procedure or by invitation.
- Participation in evaluation committees for the assignment of research funds: 2009, Ministerial Research Project: “IDEA Young Researchers”; External member in committees for national and international doctoral final examinations; 2010, Research Grant Council (Ref. No.479810), General Research Fund 2010/2011, the Chinese University of Hong Kong; 2010, National Foundation for Science, Higher Education and Technological Development of the Republic of Croatia, Programme: NZZ Installation Grants (02.05.) (Project 02.05./37); 2014 – present, Committee for Research Funding of several Universities (Milan, Padua, Verona, Modena, Naples); 2016, Advisory Board for H2020-REP-EAT-GA-713714; 2017, Israel Science Foundation: Evaluation Research Grant, proposal number 370/17-18.4
- Patents: Patent No. PCT/IB2006000741: “Double-stranded synthetic oligonucleotides useful for inducing apoptosis of osteoclasts for the treatment of osteopenic pathologies” R. Gambari, L. Penolazzi, R. Piva (priority No. TO2005A000212 of 31-03-2005). Holders: University of Ferrara, Venetian Association for the Fight against Thalassemia of Rovigo; from 30-03-2006 to date. United States Patent 7,659,258 “Double-stranded synthetic oligonucleotides useful for inducing apoptosis of osteoclasts for the treatment of osteopenic pathologies”. R. Gambari, L. Penolazzi, R. Piva. Holders: University of Ferrara, Venetian Association for the fight against Thalassemia; from 02-01-2010 to date.
- Referee for numerous international journals, including: Acta Biomaterialia, Apoptosis, Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Biomaterials, Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, BMC Cell Biology, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, Cartilage, Cell Biochemistry & Function, Cytotherapy, Cell Cycle, CMLS, DNA and Cell Biology, Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, FEBS Letters, Life Sciences, Journal of Molecular Histology, Journal of Cellular Physiology, Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Journal of Molecular Histology, Journal Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Oncogene, Oncotarget, Oral Diseases, Stem Cell Reviews and Reports, Stem Cells, Stem Cell Research & Therapy, Tissue Engineering, Journal of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine.
- Scientific awards and recognitions: Winner of the Soroptimist Award for Scientific Research, 1988; Winner of the AICC National Award (Italian Cell Culture Association), 1990; CIB Research Award, in the person of Dr. Elisabetta Lambertini, 2012; "Henry M. Goldman" Research Award, in the person of Dr. Renata Vecchiatini, 2014 (http://www.unife.it/news/2014/marzo/il-prestigioso-premio-di-ricerca-henry-m-goldman-a-renata-vecchiatini-assegnista-di-ricerca-della-u-o-di-odontoiatria-di-unife); Best Poster Erasmus Center - Rotterdam for the School of Molecular Medicine, MolMed day, in the person of Dr. Andrea Lolli, 2016; Best Abstract Award 13th World Congress of the International Cartilage Repair Society, Sorrento, Italy 2016; Best PhD thesis cycle XXVIII, in the person of Dr. Andrea Lolli, 2017.
Conference organization: Member of scientific committees for the organization of several National Congresses, responsible in particular for the following meetings: - Conference at the University of Ferrara: "Biotechnological Applications of Synthetic Oligonucleotides" - 12 December 1990; - Doctoral School "Gene Silencing", Ferrara, 18-20 June 2008; - 3rd Meeting Stem Cell Research Italy Society, Ferrara, 20-22 June 2012; - Doctoral School Conference: "MicroRNA: from basic research to therapeutic applications" Ferrara 16-17 September 2013; - 57th National Meeting of the Italian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ferrara 18/20 September 2013.
RESEARCH ACTIVITY TOPICS
Past research activities have been mainly dedicated to the following areas:
- erythroid differentiation in human erythroid precursors and cell lines;
- DNA methylation in relation to the expression of specific genes involved in differentiation and proliferation in physiopathological situations (globin genes, oncogenes, HLA-DR, polycystin, genes for receptors and growth factors);
- human estrogen receptor alpha (ERα): sequencing of the gene promoter, transcriptional regulation, analysis of polymorphisms and alternative splicing, evaluation of protein expression in normal and neoplastic tissues (in particular, breast and endometrial carcinomas);
- development of an innovative technique for the reactivation of ERα expression or the shutdown of NF-kB: “decoy” strategy aimed at the reversion of the aggressive tumor phenotype “breast cancer ERα negative”, the increase of osteoblastic cell activity and the induction of osteoclast apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo;
- evaluation of the biological effects of plant extracts in tumor cell lines and primary cultures, with respect to proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation;
- in vivo analysis of the interactions between ERα proteins and AP1, Lef1, Runx2 and NFATc1 (among themselves and with DNA) in the molecular mechanisms of transcriptional regulation of specific genes.
- the role of a matrix protein, Collagen type XV (a proteoglycan belonging to the multiplexin subfamily);
- regulation of the enzymatic activity of cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) and cystathionine β-synthetase (CBS) responsible for the production of endogenous H2S, an important signaling molecule;
- gene silencing of Slug and microRNA-221 aimed at i. studying the role of osteo and chondrogenic transcriptional regulators and identifying new molecular targets, and ii. creating implantable engineered stem cells;
The main research activities in progress are aimed at studying:
- the molecular mechanisms involved in osteogenic, chondrogenic and discogenic differentiation;
- the effect of variations in partial pressure of O2 on the behavior of stem cells, mesenchymal cells and adult cells;
- hypoxic and growth pre-conditioning in dynamic microgravity on the “potency” of MSCs, osteoblasts and on the activity of osteoclasts;
- the development of 3D systems based on “smart” combinations of biomaterials/osteochondroprogenitors/biomolecules aimed at engineering bone and cartilage tissue;
- the use of umbilical cord Wharton’s jelly as a scaffold;
- the continuation of the study of the formation of specific supramolecular complexes between nucleic acids, transcription factors and “scaffold” proteins for understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern the onset of degenerative diseases affecting bone and cartilage tissue, including osteoporosis and osteoarthritis;
- the role of the purinergic receptor P2X7 in disc homeostasis and its impact on mechanotransduction.
These lines of research:
i. are based on human cellular models made from normal and pathological tissue explants (bone marrow, umbilical cord, peripheral blood, bone and cartilage fragments),
ii. are focused on molecular networks traditionally studied by the research group (Wnt and estrogen signaling, pathways mediated by Slug, TRPS1, Sox9 and Runx2),
iii. they employ consolidated investigation methods at the molecular level (qRT-PCR, Western blot, FACS, and immunohistochemical techniques for the analysis of expression at the mRNA and protein levels; Chromatin immunoprecipitation – ChIP for the in vivo study of protein/DNA interactions; cloning and Luc-assay for the analysis of gene promoter activity; sequencing, PLA) and at the cellular level (specific enzymatic and staining methods to measure the functional activity of cells; optical and electronic microscopy techniques; use of the RCCS-4SC bioreactor, Synthecon and of the integrated hypoxia system X3 HYPOXIA HOOD AND CULTURE COMBO – Xvivo System model X3, BioSpherix for growth in controlled conditions that favor the simulation of the physiological microenvironment).
FUNDING AWARDED AS PROJECT MANAGER
- PRIN 2000. Development of molecular biology protocols for the identification of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) using high-performance technologies (protocol MM05213397_002).
- Regione Università Area 1b Research Program “Regenerative Medicine”: - 2008-2010, Roberta Piva Operating Unit, WP 2.7: “Pulsating Electromagnetic Fields and Biomaterials for Bone Regeneration”. Project Title: Regenerative medicine in the treatment of osteoarticular diseases, (scientific manager: prof. Andrea Facchini, AOU Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, IRCCS, Bologna).
- Interuniversity Consortium for Biotechnology, contributions as Operational Unit Manager: 2002, contribution for training activities at Italian laboratories, in favor of Dr. Elisabetta Lambertini; 2008, contribution for training activities at foreign laboratories, in favor of Dr. Tiziana Franceschetti; 2009, contribution for training activities at foreign laboratories, in favor of Dr. Tiziana Franceschetti; 2010, contribution for scholarship “Expression and pharmacological modulation of mir-210 and mir-221 during differentiation, cell cycle and metastatic proliferation in various experimental models”, in favor of Dr. Enrica Fabbri; 2010, contribution for training activities in Biotechnology, participation in conferences in Biotechnology, in favor of Dr. Elena Torreggiani; 2012, contribution for training activities in Biotechnology, participation in conferences in Biotechnology, in favor of Dr. Elena Torreggiani; 2013, contribution for participation in the “World Conference on Regenerative Medicine”, in favor of Dr. Marco Angelozzi; 2015, contribution for participation in the “4th Joint Meeting of the European Calcified Tissue Society (ECTS) and the International Bone and Mineral Society (IBMS)” in favor of Dr. Andrea Lolli; 2016, contribution for participation in the SCR congress, in favor of Dr. Marco Angelozzi; 2022 and 2024 Contribution to research; 2025, contribution for training activities in favor of Dr. Erica Ginestra
- Consorzio Spinner Regione Emilia Romagna (Global Grant and implementation of “Interventions for the qualification of human resources in the research and technological innovation sector”): 2012, co-financing for the research project “Design and development of innovative devices for bone regeneration” (prot. n. 018/12-dott.) - PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Oncology: n. 1 scholarship, contact for the University of Ferrara, Prof. Roberta Piva.
- Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Ferrara: 2004, contribution to the project “Targeted therapeutic interventions against osteoporosis and bone metastasis”; 2010-2012, contribution to the project “Use of an innovative bioreactor for bone tissue regeneration: molecular and therapeutic implications”
- Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Cento: from 1997 to 2010, continuous annual contributions for projects on “Study of the regulation of gene expression in normal and pathological cells”
- University Fund for Scientific Research from 1992 to today; co-financing for Research Grants (dr. Maria Letizia Penolazzi, dr. Francesca Salvatori, dr. Anna Chierici)
- University Internationalization Initiatives: 2009, Start-up (Foreign partner: Prof. Ivo Kalajzic, Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology University of Connecticut Farmington, CT, USA), €6,000.00
- Co-financing for research from the paid services of the Dentistry Section – Prof. Giorgio Calura, for the research project of the PhD student Dr. Renata Vecchiatini, 2008-2010 €30,000.00
- CALL FOR Large Equipment: 2008, €20,000.00 for the purchase of the bioreactor “Synthecon Rotary Cell Culture System”; 2015, €118,000.00 funding awarded for the purchase of “X3 HYPOXIA HOOD AND CULTURE COMBO” and Histological processing station
- PRIN 2022 NextGenerationEU “Extracellular matrix from umbilical cord as component for bioscaffolds tailored to intervertebral disc diseases” (prot. n. 2022RHHFCX).
Funding as an aggregate operational unit:
- projects related to Prof. Roberto Gambari, University of Ferrara (from 2000 to 2015), including:
MIUR FIRB-2002, 2005; MIUR-Cofin 2005 and 2007; Fondazione CaRiPaRo; ER-Gen Tech; Telethon (GGP10214); AIRC 2003 and 2004
- REGION UNIVERSITY RESEARCH PROGRAM 2010-2012. AREA 1 – “Innovative Research”. Strategic Program Title: “Regenerative Medicine of Cartilage and Bone”. Scientific Director: Prof. Andrea Facchini/ Dr. Gina Lisignoli
- FINALIZED RESEARCH, MINISTRY OF HEALTH 2012. Novel Approach For Bone Regeneration And Repair Using Sulfur Donor-Based Therapy Project Code: RF-2010-2321176. Scientific Director: Dr. Francesco Grassi.
Project Involvement: IBERSAN-SANTIVERI Spain 2015 affiliated with Prof. Assunta Pandolfi, University of Chieti, “Potential role of vitamin K2 in vascular homeostasis and osteogenesis”.
CONSORZIO Sorriso s.c.a r.l. 2016: Contribution to the PROJECT “Cooperation for Advanced Research in Applied nAnoTechnologies (Co.R.D.AT.A)” - Stem Cells and Nanodevices for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. THALAMOSS, (2012-2016) Referent Prof. Roberto Gambari, “THALAssaemia MOdular Stratification System for personalized therapy of beta-thalassemia” Project ID: 306201, FP7-HEALTH.
- Birth date: January 16th, 1961 - Birth place: Rovigo (Italy)
- Married, one daughter
EDUCATION
- 1980: High School Diploma in Classics, Liceo Ginnasio Statale "Celio", Rovigo
- 1984: Degree in Biological Sciences, University of Ferrara (Final score: 110/110 cum laude)
- 1985: Qualification to practice as a Biologist
- 1991: PhD in Biochemistry, Rome
- Foreign language known: English
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
- 1985-1986: Full Professor of Mathematical, Chemical, Physical and Natural Sciences in Middle School
- 1990-1993: Laboratory Technician VII level, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Ferrara
- 1994-2005: University Researcher of Biochemistry, SSD BIO/10, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara
- 1997: Confirmation in role University Researcher of Biochemistry
- 2005-2021: Associate Professor of Biochemistry, SSD BIO/10, University of Ferrara
- 2008: Confirmation in role Associate Professor of Biochemistry
- Achievement of National Scientific Qualification I Band (2012 session) for the disciplinary sectors:
05/E1 - General Biochemistry and Biochemistry Clinic
05/E2 - Molecular Biology
05/F1 - Applied Biology
PRESENT POSITION: Full Professor of Biochemistry, University of Ferrara; Faculty appointment: Medicine.
INSTITUTIONAL AND SCIENTIFIC TASKS
2001- 2005: Member of the Departmental Commission for the assignment of Research Grants
2004-2012: Member of the Self-Evaluation Unit for the Degree Course in Biotechnology
2011: Coordinator of the Departmental VQR Commission for the “Evaluation of Research Quality
2004-2010” - Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara
2005 - 2024: Member of the Departmental VQR Commission for the “Evaluation of Research Quality (VQR 2004-2010, VQR 2011-2014, VQR 2015-2019 and VQR 2020-2023)
2017: Member of the Commission for the drafting and updating of the Degree Regulations for the Degree Course in Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics
2013 - 2024: Member of the Teaching Commission of the Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics Course of Studies
- Member of the Board of the Center for Electron Microscopy – CME, University of Ferrara
- Member of the Board of Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara
1995 - to date: Head of the CIB Operating Unit, Interuniversity Consortium of Biotechnology
2000 - to date: Member of the Teaching Board of the PhD course in “Molecular Medicine and Pharmacology” (formerly “Molecular Oncology”) later merged into “Medical, Omic and Oncological Sciences” University of Ferrara
2024 - to date: Member of the Teaching Board of the PhD course of National Interest in Life Course Research, University of Florence
2012 - to date: Member and vice president of the Board of the SCR, Italian Society of “Stem Cell Research”
2015 - to date: Member of INNATA “Italian Network of Perinatal Stem Cells”
- Member of the board of StemNet - Federation of Associations on Stem Cell Research
Registered in the ministerial database REPRISE.
TEACHING ACTIVITY
Since 1985, within the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, she has collaborated in the exercises and held integrative seminars for the lessons of Biological Chemistry for the Degree Course in Dentistry, and of Molecular Pathology for the School of Specialization in Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases of the Metabolic Cycle.
From 1997 to today, she has held official positions in the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery and in the Faculty of MM FF NN Sciences, and in Specialization Schools (Medical-Surgical Area, Health Area, teaching of Molecular Biology for the Specialist Degrees in Oncology, Hematology, Dermatology, Pathological Anatomy, Obstetrics and Gynecology).
Main teachings:
1997-2001: Principles of Biochemical Engineering, University Diploma in Agro-industrial Biotechnology, Faculty of Mathematical, Physical, Chemical and Natural Sciences;
-1998-2002: Diagnostic Techniques of Clinical Biochemistry, University Diploma of Biomedical Laboratory Technician, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery;
-1999-2000: Biochemistry II, Experimental Degree Course in Medicine and Surgery;
-2001-2002: Biological Polymers and Industrial Enzymology, Degree Course in Agro-industrial Biotechnology, Faculty of Mathematical, Physical, Chemical and Natural Sciences;
-2001-2005: Biochemistry II, Degree Course in Motor Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery;
-2002-2012: Biochemistry, Interfaculty Degree Course in Biotechnology of the University;
-2005-2012: Biochemistry, Degree Course in Biomedical Laboratory Techniques, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery;
-2012-2013: Structure and functions of biological molecules, Degree Course in Biomedical Laboratory Techniques, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery;
-2015-2016: Biochemistry I, Degree Course in Motor Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery;
-2015-2021: Cellular Biochemistry and Regenerative Medicine, Master's Degree in Biotechnology for the Environment and Health
2013-2020: Molecular Biology, Bachelor's Degree in Motor Sciences (1 CFU)
She currently holds the following courses:
2013 - Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Master's Degree in Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics (7 CFU)
2013 - Molecular Biology, Master's Degree in Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics (2 CFU)
2013 - Molecular Biology/Signal Transduction, Bachelor's Degree in Dental Hygiene (2 CFU)
2019 - Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Master's Degree in Medicine and Surgery (1 CFU)
2022 - Signal Transduction, Master's Degree in Industrial Biotechnology of biopharmaceuticals,
cosmetics and nutraceuticals (3 CFU)
2023 - Advanced cellular therapies, Master's degree in Industrial biotechnology of biopharmaceuticals,cosmetics and nutraceuticals (3 CFU)
- Participation in numerous events for the dissemination of science: “European Researchers' Night”, “UNI Festival”, “Unistem Day”, “Pint of Science”. 2010 – 2013: seminar activity for U.T.E.F., UNIVERSITY FOR PERMANENT EDUCATION, Ferrara. Scientific orientation and dissemination activities in Middle Schools and High Schools of Ferrara, including: Liceo Classico Ariosto of Ferrara (2011, conference entitled: “Fixing bones with biotechnology”), Istituto "F.lli Taddia" of Cento (2014, conference entitled: “Stem cells and regenerative medicine”).
Supervisor of over 100 experimental degree theses from 2000 to today for the degree courses in the Medical, Biomedical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Chemical fields
Counter-supervisor of dozens of degree theses.
Tutor of the following PhD theses:
- PhD in Biochemistry, XII cycle: Letizia Penolazzi: The “decoy” strategy in the modulation of the expression of the human gene for the estrogen receptor alpha in breast cancer cells.
- PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, XVIII cycle: Gian Pietro Schincaglia: Modulation of estrogen receptor alpha expression in human osteoblasts by decoy strategy.
- PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Oncology, XXI cycle: Elisa Tavanti: The regulation of the expression of the gene for the estrogen receptor alpha in human osteoblasts: role of Runx2, AP-1 and NFATc1.
- PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Oncology, XXIII cycle: Elena Torreggiani: Osteogenic differentiation: a novel role of Slug protein.
- PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, XXIII cycle: Renata Vecchiatini: Mesenchymal stem cells from Wharton's Jelly and periodontal ligament: reliable not controversial sources for osteogenic differentiation and regenerative medicine.
- PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Oncology, XXVIII cycle: Andrea Lolli: Validation of the anti-chondrogenic properties of the microRNA-221 and Slug transcription factor by different in vitro and in vivo models: new perspectives for cartilage regeneration.
- PhD in Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, XXIX cycle – supervisor: Marco Angelozzi: Cell-based models for bone and cartilage tissue engineering: in vitro investigations from a biomaterialistic, cellular and molecular perspective.
- PhD in Molecular Medicine and Pharmacology, XXXIII cycle Leticia Scussel Bergamin: Pathophysiology of the P2X7 receptor in the skeleton.
- PhD in Molecular Medicine, XXXVII cycle Maria Pina Notarangelo Counteracting intervertebral disc degeneration: a contribution from the development of Wharton's jelly-based scaffolds and the investigation of the purinergic P2X7 receptor.
SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH ACTIVITY
In the years immediately following graduation, research activity was carried out within the groups coordinated by professors Laura del Senno and Roberto Gambari (Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology – UniFE) until 1993, the year that marked the start of an independent research group that over time became attractive to numerous graduates, scholarship holders and PhD students, and was consolidated in 2007 with the assignment of a Scientific Technician position in the person of Dr. Letizia Penolazzi, now Associate Professor.
- ORCID ID 0000-0003-2663-6210
Scopus ID 57188651022
H-index = 38 (Google Scholar) – 31 (SCOPUS)
She has 172 articles in international peer-review journals, and 3 chapters in international books, hundreds of abstracts at National and International Conferences in which she participates following a selection procedure or by invitation.
- Participation in evaluation committees for the assignment of research funds: 2009, Ministerial Research Project: “IDEA Young Researchers”; External member in committees for national and international doctoral final examinations; 2010, Research Grant Council (Ref. No.479810), General Research Fund 2010/2011, the Chinese University of Hong Kong; 2010, National Foundation for Science, Higher Education and Technological Development of the Republic of Croatia, Programme: NZZ Installation Grants (02.05.) (Project 02.05./37); 2014 – present, Committee for Research Funding of several Universities (Milan, Padua, Verona, Modena, Naples); 2016, Advisory Board for H2020-REP-EAT-GA-713714; 2017, Israel Science Foundation: Evaluation Research Grant, proposal number 370/17-18.4
- Patents: Patent No. PCT/IB2006000741: “Double-stranded synthetic oligonucleotides useful for inducing apoptosis of osteoclasts for the treatment of osteopenic pathologies” R. Gambari, L. Penolazzi, R. Piva (priority No. TO2005A000212 of 31-03-2005). Holders: University of Ferrara, Venetian Association for the Fight against Thalassemia of Rovigo; from 30-03-2006 to date. United States Patent 7,659,258 “Double-stranded synthetic oligonucleotides useful for inducing apoptosis of osteoclasts for the treatment of osteopenic pathologies”. R. Gambari, L. Penolazzi, R. Piva. Holders: University of Ferrara, Venetian Association for the fight against Thalassemia; from 02-01-2010 to date.
- Referee for numerous international journals, including: Acta Biomaterialia, Apoptosis, Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Biomaterials, Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, BMC Cell Biology, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, Cartilage, Cell Biochemistry & Function, Cytotherapy, Cell Cycle, CMLS, DNA and Cell Biology, Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, FEBS Letters, Life Sciences, Journal of Molecular Histology, Journal of Cellular Physiology, Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Journal of Molecular Histology, Journal Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Oncogene, Oncotarget, Oral Diseases, Stem Cell Reviews and Reports, Stem Cells, Stem Cell Research & Therapy, Tissue Engineering, Journal of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine.
- Scientific awards and recognitions: Winner of the Soroptimist Award for Scientific Research, 1988; Winner of the AICC National Award (Italian Cell Culture Association), 1990; CIB Research Award, in the person of Dr. Elisabetta Lambertini, 2012; "Henry M. Goldman" Research Award, in the person of Dr. Renata Vecchiatini, 2014 (http://www.unife.it/news/2014/marzo/il-prestigioso-premio-di-ricerca-henry-m-goldman-a-renata-vecchiatini-assegnista-di-ricerca-della-u-o-di-odontoiatria-di-unife); Best Poster Erasmus Center - Rotterdam for the School of Molecular Medicine, MolMed day, in the person of Dr. Andrea Lolli, 2016; Best Abstract Award 13th World Congress of the International Cartilage Repair Society, Sorrento, Italy 2016; Best PhD thesis cycle XXVIII, in the person of Dr. Andrea Lolli, 2017.
Conference organization: Member of scientific committees for the organization of several National Congresses, responsible in particular for the following meetings: - Conference at the University of Ferrara: "Biotechnological Applications of Synthetic Oligonucleotides" - 12 December 1990; - Doctoral School "Gene Silencing", Ferrara, 18-20 June 2008; - 3rd Meeting Stem Cell Research Italy Society, Ferrara, 20-22 June 2012; - Doctoral School Conference: "MicroRNA: from basic research to therapeutic applications" Ferrara 16-17 September 2013; - 57th National Meeting of the Italian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ferrara 18/20 September 2013.
RESEARCH ACTIVITY TOPICS
Past research activities have been mainly dedicated to the following areas:
- erythroid differentiation in human erythroid precursors and cell lines;
- DNA methylation in relation to the expression of specific genes involved in differentiation and proliferation in physiopathological situations (globin genes, oncogenes, HLA-DR, polycystin, genes for receptors and growth factors);
- human estrogen receptor alpha (ERα): sequencing of the gene promoter, transcriptional regulation, analysis of polymorphisms and alternative splicing, evaluation of protein expression in normal and neoplastic tissues (in particular, breast and endometrial carcinomas);
- development of an innovative technique for the reactivation of ERα expression or the shutdown of NF-kB: “decoy” strategy aimed at the reversion of the aggressive tumor phenotype “breast cancer ERα negative”, the increase of osteoblastic cell activity and the induction of osteoclast apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo;
- evaluation of the biological effects of plant extracts in tumor cell lines and primary cultures, with respect to proliferation, apoptosis and differentiation;
- in vivo analysis of the interactions between ERα proteins and AP1, Lef1, Runx2 and NFATc1 (among themselves and with DNA) in the molecular mechanisms of transcriptional regulation of specific genes.
- the role of a matrix protein, Collagen type XV (a proteoglycan belonging to the multiplexin subfamily);
- regulation of the enzymatic activity of cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) and cystathionine β-synthetase (CBS) responsible for the production of endogenous H2S, an important signaling molecule;
- gene silencing of Slug and microRNA-221 aimed at i. studying the role of osteo and chondrogenic transcriptional regulators and identifying new molecular targets, and ii. creating implantable engineered stem cells;
The main research activities in progress are aimed at studying:
- the molecular mechanisms involved in osteogenic, chondrogenic and discogenic differentiation;
- the effect of variations in partial pressure of O2 on the behavior of stem cells, mesenchymal cells and adult cells;
- hypoxic and growth pre-conditioning in dynamic microgravity on the “potency” of MSCs, osteoblasts and on the activity of osteoclasts;
- the development of 3D systems based on “smart” combinations of biomaterials/osteochondroprogenitors/biomolecules aimed at engineering bone and cartilage tissue;
- the use of umbilical cord Wharton’s jelly as a scaffold;
- the continuation of the study of the formation of specific supramolecular complexes between nucleic acids, transcription factors and “scaffold” proteins for understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern the onset of degenerative diseases affecting bone and cartilage tissue, including osteoporosis and osteoarthritis;
- the role of the purinergic receptor P2X7 in disc homeostasis and its impact on mechanotransduction.
These lines of research:
i. are based on human cellular models made from normal and pathological tissue explants (bone marrow, umbilical cord, peripheral blood, bone and cartilage fragments),
ii. are focused on molecular networks traditionally studied by the research group (Wnt and estrogen signaling, pathways mediated by Slug, TRPS1, Sox9 and Runx2),
iii. they employ consolidated investigation methods at the molecular level (qRT-PCR, Western blot, FACS, and immunohistochemical techniques for the analysis of expression at the mRNA and protein levels; Chromatin immunoprecipitation – ChIP for the in vivo study of protein/DNA interactions; cloning and Luc-assay for the analysis of gene promoter activity; sequencing, PLA) and at the cellular level (specific enzymatic and staining methods to measure the functional activity of cells; optical and electronic microscopy techniques; use of the RCCS-4SC bioreactor, Synthecon and of the integrated hypoxia system X3 HYPOXIA HOOD AND CULTURE COMBO – Xvivo System model X3, BioSpherix for growth in controlled conditions that favor the simulation of the physiological microenvironment).
FUNDING AWARDED AS PROJECT MANAGER
- PRIN 2000. Development of molecular biology protocols for the identification of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) using high-performance technologies (protocol MM05213397_002).
- Regione Università Area 1b Research Program “Regenerative Medicine”: - 2008-2010, Roberta Piva Operating Unit, WP 2.7: “Pulsating Electromagnetic Fields and Biomaterials for Bone Regeneration”. Project Title: Regenerative medicine in the treatment of osteoarticular diseases, (scientific manager: prof. Andrea Facchini, AOU Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, IRCCS, Bologna).
- Interuniversity Consortium for Biotechnology, contributions as Operational Unit Manager: 2002, contribution for training activities at Italian laboratories, in favor of Dr. Elisabetta Lambertini; 2008, contribution for training activities at foreign laboratories, in favor of Dr. Tiziana Franceschetti; 2009, contribution for training activities at foreign laboratories, in favor of Dr. Tiziana Franceschetti; 2010, contribution for scholarship “Expression and pharmacological modulation of mir-210 and mir-221 during differentiation, cell cycle and metastatic proliferation in various experimental models”, in favor of Dr. Enrica Fabbri; 2010, contribution for training activities in Biotechnology, participation in conferences in Biotechnology, in favor of Dr. Elena Torreggiani; 2012, contribution for training activities in Biotechnology, participation in conferences in Biotechnology, in favor of Dr. Elena Torreggiani; 2013, contribution for participation in the “World Conference on Regenerative Medicine”, in favor of Dr. Marco Angelozzi; 2015, contribution for participation in the “4th Joint Meeting of the European Calcified Tissue Society (ECTS) and the International Bone and Mineral Society (IBMS)” in favor of Dr. Andrea Lolli; 2016, contribution for participation in the SCR congress, in favor of Dr. Marco Angelozzi; 2022 and 2024 Contribution to research; 2025, contribution for training activities in favor of Dr. Erica Ginestra
- Consorzio Spinner Regione Emilia Romagna (Global Grant and implementation of “Interventions for the qualification of human resources in the research and technological innovation sector”): 2012, co-financing for the research project “Design and development of innovative devices for bone regeneration” (prot. n. 018/12-dott.) - PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Oncology: n. 1 scholarship, contact for the University of Ferrara, Prof. Roberta Piva.
- Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Ferrara: 2004, contribution to the project “Targeted therapeutic interventions against osteoporosis and bone metastasis”; 2010-2012, contribution to the project “Use of an innovative bioreactor for bone tissue regeneration: molecular and therapeutic implications”
- Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Cento: from 1997 to 2010, continuous annual contributions for projects on “Study of the regulation of gene expression in normal and pathological cells”
- University Fund for Scientific Research from 1992 to today; co-financing for Research Grants (dr. Maria Letizia Penolazzi, dr. Francesca Salvatori, dr. Anna Chierici)
- University Internationalization Initiatives: 2009, Start-up (Foreign partner: Prof. Ivo Kalajzic, Department of Genetics & Developmental Biology University of Connecticut Farmington, CT, USA), €6,000.00
- Co-financing for research from the paid services of the Dentistry Section – Prof. Giorgio Calura, for the research project of the PhD student Dr. Renata Vecchiatini, 2008-2010 €30,000.00
- CALL FOR Large Equipment: 2008, €20,000.00 for the purchase of the bioreactor “Synthecon Rotary Cell Culture System”; 2015, €118,000.00 funding awarded for the purchase of “X3 HYPOXIA HOOD AND CULTURE COMBO” and Histological processing station
- PRIN 2022 NextGenerationEU “Extracellular matrix from umbilical cord as component for bioscaffolds tailored to intervertebral disc diseases” (prot. n. 2022RHHFCX).
Funding as an aggregate operational unit:
- projects related to Prof. Roberto Gambari, University of Ferrara (from 2000 to 2015), including:
MIUR FIRB-2002, 2005; MIUR-Cofin 2005 and 2007; Fondazione CaRiPaRo; ER-Gen Tech; Telethon (GGP10214); AIRC 2003 and 2004
- REGION UNIVERSITY RESEARCH PROGRAM 2010-2012. AREA 1 – “Innovative Research”. Strategic Program Title: “Regenerative Medicine of Cartilage and Bone”. Scientific Director: Prof. Andrea Facchini/ Dr. Gina Lisignoli
- FINALIZED RESEARCH, MINISTRY OF HEALTH 2012. Novel Approach For Bone Regeneration And Repair Using Sulfur Donor-Based Therapy Project Code: RF-2010-2321176. Scientific Director: Dr. Francesco Grassi.
Project Involvement: IBERSAN-SANTIVERI Spain 2015 affiliated with Prof. Assunta Pandolfi, University of Chieti, “Potential role of vitamin K2 in vascular homeostasis and osteogenesis”.
CONSORZIO Sorriso s.c.a r.l. 2016: Contribution to the PROJECT “Cooperation for Advanced Research in Applied nAnoTechnologies (Co.R.D.AT.A)” - Stem Cells and Nanodevices for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. THALAMOSS, (2012-2016) Referent Prof. Roberto Gambari, “THALAssaemia MOdular Stratification System for personalized therapy of beta-thalassemia” Project ID: 306201, FP7-HEALTH.
