Research

Research

Ongoing Research projects in my Laboratory are:

1) The role of AGO1 and AGO2 proteins in the regulation of telomerase activity in human cells.

Our data (Laudadio et al, EMBO Reports, 2019) show that AGO2 is required for efficient loading of TERC RNA onto TERT to yield telomerase holoenzyme. In this process a small RNA arising from TERC 3' end (terc-sRNA) is involved. We hypothesize that terc-sRNA could drive recruitment of AGO2 onto TERC. We are currently investigating the molecular mechanisms through which AGO2 and TERC sRNA regulate telomerase holoenzyme assembly

2) Epitranscriptomic modifications of human miRNAs

We set up a NGS protocol and a bioinformatic pipeline to assess m5C in human microRNAs. Furthermore, we aim to investigate the effects of m5C on miRNA stability, target repression and subcellular localization.

3) Human gut microbiota metagenomics.

In collaboration with Prof Stronati, we are currently analyzing taxonomic and functional profile of gut microbiota in ASD patients.

4) Functional interaction between SWI/SNF and YAP/TAZ.

In collaboration with Prof Zanconato (Padua University) we are investigating the molecular mechanisms through which SWI/SNF complex regulates the transcriptional activity of YAP/TAZ