Head: Silvia Soddu, MD, PhD
STAFF

The research objectives of the Unit “Cellular Networks and Molecular Therapeutic Targets” are pursued through the integrated experimental work of the following groups:

PI Soddu

Soddu’s group is actively pursuing the molecular characterization of mitosis and cytokinesis functions of proteins usually involved in the DNA damage response, such as p53, HIPK2, and histone H2B. Particular attention has been dedicated to the contribution of centrosomal p53 in the mitotic surveillance pathway; the role of extrachromosomal histone H2B in abscission; the identification and characterization of a new HIPK2 isoform with a cytokinesis-specific function.

PI Paggi

Paggi’s group actively contributes to drug repurposing in the treatment of GB. Intelligent and rational drug repurposing or repositioning are possible strategies to develop new therapies implicating lower risks, shorter timelines to bedside and lower costs. To this end, we employ cell biology and proteomic platforms, as reverse-phase protein arrays (RPPA), activity-based protein profiling (ABPP), SeaHorse and confocal microscopy, to delve into pharmacodynamic characteristics of old drugs amenable of repositioning in the therapy of GB. In addition, this group was proficient in attributing to the kinase inhibitor SI113 the correct mechanism of action in inhibiting the PI3K/mTOR pathway and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, as well as in stimulating autophagy.