Researches on ribosome-inactivating proteins: 1- Research
for new RIPs and purification and characterization of the
identified RIPs; this investigation is carried out particularly in
edible plants and in plants belonging to the Adenia genus, from
which were purified the most toxic type-2 RIPs so far known in
nature; 2- Studies on distribution and physiological role of RIPs;
3- Mechanisms of RIP cytotoxicity, particularly concerning binding,
endocytosis, intracellular routing, cascade of damage to rRNA, DNA
or any other substrates and the cell death pathways.
Researches on immunotoxins: 1- Design and construction of
new immunotoxins (conjugates antibody-toxin), obtained through
chemical modification and conjugation of the two components, in
order to obtain specific drugs to target cells responsible for a
pathological condition; 2- In vitro and in vivo studies on
immunotoxins for the experimental therapy of tumors, particularly
for hematological neoplasia; 3- In vitro and in vivo studies on
immunotoxins for the prevention and the treatment of GVHD and graft
rejection.
Researches on Xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR): Study of the physiological and pathological functions of XOR and of the circulating products of its enzymatic activity, mainly on cardivascular and neoplastic diseases.
Researches on Natural products: study of the impact on human health of plant natural compounds used for pharmacological purposes and as nutraceuticals.
