Our main interest lies in the understanding of the mechanisms underlying orofacial development and regeneration. To this aim we employ a unique combination of animal models and human-directed studies that allow us to merge basic research to translational approaches.
Genetic disorders and orofacial development
Orofacial and dental disorders are among the most common genetic and non-genetic conditions. In our lab we exploit mouse models of human defects, such as cleft lip/palate and a plethora of tooth defects, combined to state-of-the-art imaging and high throughput analysis to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these pathologies. At the same time, we exploit the teeth as a model to study basic features of the Notch signalling pathway. The tooth is a unique model that allows the simultaneous study of key mechanisms involved in most biological processes, such as (but not limited to) morphogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal cross-talk, cellular polarization, fine protein secretion and degradation, and matrix mineralization.
Stem cells in homeostasis, pathology and regeneration
Stem cells are fundamental actors in the maintenance and the regeneration of all organs. The orofacial complex hosts an astounding diversity of cell and stem cell populations, which together ensure the functionality of this fundamental region. We investigate via lineage tracing, state-of-the-art 3D imaging, transcriptomics and proteomics approaches the stem cell populations involved in the homeostasis and regeneration of orofacial tissues, and their use and targeting for therapeutic approaches.
Innervation and vascularization of the craniofacial complex
Nerves and blood vessels are pivotal for the functioning and the proper regeneration of any tissue. Innervation of craniofacial organs conveys sensation and pain, as well as modulating movement and basic functions. Blood vessels provide trophic support, and endothelial cells fundamental tissue-specific signals to the surrounding cell populations. A third line of research in our laboratory is constituted by the study of the factors that modulate facial innervation and vascularization. In parallel, we study how these two key actors affect tissue homeostasis and the regeneration. For these purposes, in vivo studies are combined with state-of-the-art microfluidic and 3D emulation systems.
Nanotechnology, "organ-on-a-chip" technology, and therapy
Our group pioneers the use of nanotechnology, "organ-on-a-chip" and organoid formation technology-based approaches for the treatment of oral diseases, and modulation of processes fundamental for tissue homeostasis and regeneration, such as innervation and angiogenesis. Drugs and their delivery are routinely tested in vivo and using in vitro models of human tissues.
Genetic disorders and orofacial development
Orofacial and dental disorders are among the most common genetic and non-genetic conditions. In our lab we exploit mouse models of human defects, such as cleft lip/palate and a plethora of tooth defects, combined to state-of-the-art imaging and high throughput analysis to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these pathologies. At the same time, we exploit the teeth as a model to study basic features of the Notch signalling pathway. The tooth is a unique model that allows the simultaneous study of key mechanisms involved in most biological processes, such as (but not limited to) morphogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal cross-talk, cellular polarization, fine protein secretion and degradation, and matrix mineralization.
Stem cells in homeostasis, pathology and regeneration
Stem cells are fundamental actors in the maintenance and the regeneration of all organs. The orofacial complex hosts an astounding diversity of cell and stem cell populations, which together ensure the functionality of this fundamental region. We investigate via lineage tracing, state-of-the-art 3D imaging, transcriptomics and proteomics approaches the stem cell populations involved in the homeostasis and regeneration of orofacial tissues, and their use and targeting for therapeutic approaches.
Innervation and vascularization of the craniofacial complex
Nerves and blood vessels are pivotal for the functioning and the proper regeneration of any tissue. Innervation of craniofacial organs conveys sensation and pain, as well as modulating movement and basic functions. Blood vessels provide trophic support, and endothelial cells fundamental tissue-specific signals to the surrounding cell populations. A third line of research in our laboratory is constituted by the study of the factors that modulate facial innervation and vascularization. In parallel, we study how these two key actors affect tissue homeostasis and the regeneration. For these purposes, in vivo studies are combined with state-of-the-art microfluidic and 3D emulation systems.
Nanotechnology, "organ-on-a-chip" technology, and therapy
Our group pioneers the use of nanotechnology, "organ-on-a-chip" and organoid formation technology-based approaches for the treatment of oral diseases, and modulation of processes fundamental for tissue homeostasis and regeneration, such as innervation and angiogenesis. Drugs and their delivery are routinely tested in vivo and using in vitro models of human tissues.