Participation in the 2nd FEBS Workshop on Redox Medicine
Our international PhD student Giuseppe T. Patanè attended the 2nd FEBS Workshop on Redox Medicine, held in Luso, Portugal, dedicated to the theme “Connecting the Exposome with Redox Regulation in Health and Disease.”
Giuseppe delivered a presentation showcasing the work he developed throughout this year in our group, contributing to discussions on how redox regulation influences health and disease mechanisms.
We are proud to see our research represented at such a high-level scientific meeting, promoting collaboration and knowledge exchange in this important field.
Check the programme and the book of abstracts here!
Professors Oliveira and Alves Featured in SPB Newsletter
We are pleased to share that Prof. Pedro F. Oliveira and Prof. Marco G. Alves were featured in the September newsletter of the Portuguese Society of Biochemistry (SPB).
In this edition, they shared their insights into the molecular pathways involved in male fertility, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge in this important area of research.
You can access the newsletter here!
New Publication in Placenta
We are excited to share our latest article published in Placenta (Elsevier), titled: “Endothelial responses to angiogenic modulators highlight metabolic mechanisms underlying vascular dysfunction in preeclampsia.”
In this study, we show that elevated sFlt-1/PlGF ratios impair endothelial metabolism, driving oxidative stress and metabolic alterations that contribute to vascular dysfunction in preeclampsia.
Read the full article here!
Professors Alves and Oliveira Once Again Among the World’s Most Cited Scientists!
We’re proud to share that our PIs, Marco G. Alves and Pedro F. Oliveira, have once again been recognized among the world’s most cited scientists. They are among the 98 researchers from the University of Aveiro featured in this year’s list of influential scientists.
This recognition comes from the Updated Science-Wide Author Databases of Standardized Citation Indicators, a dataset published by Elsevier that assesses citation impact and other metrics across scholars worldwide.
Their continued presence on this list is a testament to their sustained influence, rigorous research, and the prominent role of our group in advancing science.
Read more in the UA announcement: UA News – Most Influential Scientists
Explore the citation metrics data here: Elsevier dataset
European Researchers’ Night: Science, Health and Fertility
We are excited to announce that our group will be taking part in this year’s Noite Europeia dos Investigadores (European Researchers’ Night) at the University of Aveiro, organized by Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva, Aveiro. Our bench will feature the activity “(In)Fertilidade Masculina: Descobre o que faz a Diferença” (Male (In)Fertility: Discover What Makes the Difference).
🗓 Date: 26 September 2025
⏰ Event time: 20h00 – 24h00
📍 Location: iBiMED stand, Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
👉 Our activity will take place during the 22h00 – 23h00 timeslot, so be sure to stop by the iBiMED stand to meet us!
We look forward to welcoming everyone to an evening where science comes alive.
For more information about Noite Europeia dos Investigadores!
Our PhD Students Present at the SIB Congress 2025 in Palermo
Our PhD students, Rúben J. Moreira and Giuseppe T. Patanè, presented their research posters at the 63rd Congress of the Italian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (SIB), held in Palermo, Sicily (Italy).
The congress brought together researchers from across Europe to discuss the latest advances in biochemistry and molecular biology. By sharing their work in this international setting, Rúben and Giuseppe had the opportunity to exchange ideas, receive valuable feedback, and strengthen collaborations.
We congratulate them both for representing our group at such a prestigious scientific event!
New Publication in Biomolecules!
We are excited to share our latest publication in Biomolecules, titled “Glycerol Kinase 2 as a Metabolic Sentinel for Human Sperm Motility and Male Fertility”
This study highlights the role of Glycerol Kinase 2 (GK2) as a key metabolic regulator of sperm function. Our review suggests that GK2 may serve as a metabolic sentinel for human sperm motility, offering new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying male fertility.
Read the full study here!
Our team is proud to announce the publication of our new paper in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology, a collaboration with the University of Murcia, Spain.
We investigated the impact of the pesticide aminocarb on testicular Leydig cells. We discovered that aminocarb has a complex, biphasic effect - enhancing cell viability at low doses while being toxic at high doses. Crucially, it stimulated the production of androstenedione, a male hormone precursor, highlighting its potential as an endocrine disruptor. This work provides new insights into how common environmental chemicals can affect male reproductive health.
Read the full study here!
We are proud to announce that our paper titled “Mitochondria Quality Control and Male Fertility” has received a Best Paper Award from MDPI. The article, published in Biology (2023, 12(6), 827), is authored by José Costa, Patrícia C. Braga, Irene Rebelo, Pedro F. Oliveira, and Marco G. Alves. This work highlights the essential role of mitochondrial quality control mechanisms in maintaining male reproductive health and offers new insights into how mitochondrial dysfunction can impact fertility. This recognition reflects the quality, scientific relevance, and impact of our team’s research in the field of male reproductive biology.
Congratulations to all the authors on this achievement!
You can read the full article here!
As part of the University of Aveiro’s Academia de Verão (Summer Academy) program, our group prepared two interactive activities designed for high school students.
The first activity, “Male (In)Fertility: Discover What Makes the Difference", introduced students to the biological and environmental factors that influence male fertility. Through hands-on experiments and discussions, participants explored how lifestyle and external exposures can impact reproductive health.
The second activity, "Biochemistry in Clinical Diagnosis", demonstrated how biochemical analyses are essential tools in medical diagnostics. Students learned how routine laboratory tests help detect diseases early and support clinical decision-making.
Both activities aimed to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of scientists by showing the real-world applications of biomedical research.
Learn more about the Summer Academy here!
We are very pleased to announce that Silvia Moreira has successfully completed her PhD in Biomedicine. Her thesis, titled “Carbamates Exposure in Male Infertility: Underlying Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms,” represents an important contribution to understanding how environmental factors impact reproductive health.
We warmly congratulate Silvia on this significant achievement and wish her all the best in her future scientific endeavors!
You can check some of his work here!
From July 5–9, our PhD students Rúben J. Moreira and Giuseppe T. Patanè participated in the 49th FEBS Congress, held this year in Istanbul, Turkey.
Both presented their work through poster presentations, sharing their findings with the international scientific community and engaging in discussions on recent advances in biochemistry and molecular biology. They attended the congress alongside Italian collaborators from the University of Messina, further strengthening the ties between our research teams.
We are also proud to share that Rúben and Giuseppe each received a FEBS bursary for early-career researchers, recognizing the scientific quality and impact of their projects.
Learn more about the FEBS Congress: here!
Our PhD student Rúben J. Moreira participated in the TRANSLACORE Training School on Leveraging Mass Spectrometry for Detection of RNA Chemical Modifications, held from June 17–20, 2025, in Montpellier, France.
Organized by the Clinical Proteomics Platform - Institute for Regenerative Medicine & Biotherapy (PPC-IRMB), this intensive four-day course combined theoretical sessions, practical training, analytical techniques, and data analysis. Participants explored the fundamentals of RNA modifications, learned about RNA mass spectrometry and its applications, especially in clinical research, and practiced hands-on sample preparation and data interpretation using dedicated software tools.
Participation in specialized training like this strengthens our group’s expertise in emerging technologies and supports the integration of advanced methodologies in our ongoing research.
Learn more about the TRANSLACORE Training School here!
I am pleased to announce the publication of a new study led by the "Sertoli cell and gamete biology lab" in the journal European Journal of Nutrition. This work addresses a fundamental question: what is the transgenerational impact of paternal obesity on the risk of developing prostate cancer? Our research used an animal model to demonstrate that a high-fat diet in male progenitors leads to increased susceptibility to prostate cancer biomarkers in their offspring. This increased risk was observed even when the high-fat diet was only temporary and followed by a normal diet. These results suggest that paternal lifestyle choices can influence the health of future generations through (epi)genetic mechanisms, highlighting the complex interplay between diet, obesity, and cancer risk. This research opens new perspectives on the prevention and risk factors of prostate cancer. I would like to thank all the co-authors for their valuable contribution.
Read the full feature here!
We are pleased to share that Professor Marco G. Alves was recently featured on the University of Aveiro’s official website for his appointment as Co-Editor-in-Chief of the Revista Internacional de Andrología. The article recognizes his significant scientific contributions and leadership in the field of male reproductive health, reinforcing the relevance of his work both nationally and internationally.
Read the full feature here!
As part of the Human Reproduction and Associated Diseases course, we were honored to host an online plenary lecture by Professor Ariane Zamoner Pacheco de Souza, Professor at the Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), Brazil, and head of the LaBioSignal – Laboratory of Biochemistry and Cell Signaling.
Professor Zamoner’s research focuses on hormonal signaling mechanisms and the impact of toxic and endocrine-disrupting compounds—such as hormones, ethanol, natural substances, and pesticides—during development. Her lecture, titled "Molecular Mechanisms Linking Pesticide Exposure to Male Reproductive Toxicity and Infertility," highlighted the growing health concerns associated with pesticide exposure, particularly the effects of glyphosate on male fertility. The session provided valuable insights into the molecular pathways involved and emphasized the importance of understanding environmental impacts on reproductive health.
Our research group proudly participated in the VIII iBiMED Symposium, a key event showcasing cutting-edge biomedical research. This year’s symposium featured engaging sessions across various themes, including Omics & Bioinformatics, where two of our PhD students presented their latest work. Rúben J. Moreira and Giuseppe T. Patanè delivered flash talks, sharing insights from their ongoing projects and contributing to dynamic discussions with fellow scientists.
Find more about the Symposium here!
Prof. Marco G. Alves has been named Co-Editor-in-Chief of the "Revista Internacional de Andrología". This esteemed journal is the official publication of several organizations, including the Asociación Española de Andrología, Medicina Sexual y Reproductiva (ASESA), the Sociedade Portuguesa de Andrologia, the Sociedad Argentina de Andrología (SAA), the Asociación Iberoamericana de Sociedades de Andrología (ANDRO), and the Federación Española de Sociedades de Sexología.
Find more about the journal here!
We had the great honor of hosting an Online Plenary Lecture featuring the renowned Professor Ashok Agarwal, Director of the Global Andrology Forum and one of the world's most influential researchers in the fields of andrology and human reproduction.
The session was delivered by Professor Agarwal and moderated by Professor Marco G. Alves and Professor Margarida Fardilha. The event brought together students at all academic levels—undergraduate, master's, and PhD—from the University of Aveiro, Portugal, and UNIFIPA, Brazil.
This exceptional lecture provided a unique opportunity for students to engage directly with one of the leading experts in the field, gaining insights into the latest advances in male reproductive health and andrology research.
We are pleased to share our latest research published in Metabolites (MDPI). This study explores the impact of caloric restriction on male reproductive health, with a particular focus on the role of sirtuins in modulating fertility outcomes. Our findings suggest that dietary interventions influencing sirtuin activity could offer promising avenues for addressing male infertility.
Find more information here!
Our lab was thrilled to participate in XPERiMENTA 2025, the University of Aveiro's premier science outreach event. We hosted the interactive activity "Clinical Biochemistry: Urine Analysis for Rapid Diagnosis of Diabetes," where high school students explored how simple biochemical tests can aid in the early detection of diabetes. This hands-on experience aimed to inspire the next generation of scientists by demonstrating the real-world applications of clinical biochemistry.
Find the photos of the activity here!
We are excited to announce our new partnership with Trialect, a global platform that connects researchers with clinical and research training opportunities. As a recognized host lab in Portugal, we are now part of Trialect’s international network, offering hands-on training and mentorship in biomedical sciences to early-career researchers and clinicians from around the world.
Our lab specializes in the study of metabolic diseases, reproductive biology, and cellular signaling pathways. Through this collaboration, we will offer short-term research fellowships focused on these areas, providing participants with the opportunity to work on ongoing projects involving molecular biology, metabolomics, and translational research. Fellows will gain practical experience with state-of-the-art methodologies while contributing to impactful research at the intersection of metabolism and human health.
Find more information and apply here!
Prof. Pedro Oliveira has co-authored a recent editorial in Frontiers in Pharmacology titled "Targeting Cellular Signalling Pathways for Disease Therapy: The Potential of Cellular Reprogramming and Protein Kinase Inhibitors." This article highlights the therapeutic potential of modulating cellular signalling pathways through approaches like cellular reprogramming and the use of protein kinase inhibitors. It discusses how these strategies can be harnessed to develop innovative treatments for various diseases.
Read the full editorial here!
Our group has collaborated in the paper: "Follicular fluid profiling unveils anti-Müllerian hormone alongside glycolytic and mitochondrial dysfunction as markers of polycystic ovary syndrome" recently accepted in Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology. This study provides an integrative analysis of the follicular fluid hormone and metabolite profile in women with polycystic ovary syndrome, offering insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the reproductive dysfunctions associated with this condition.
Check it out here!
Professor Marco G. Alves will deliver a compelling lecture entitled: "O Legado da Dieta na Fertilidade Masculina e na Saúde da Descendência” at the National Meeting of Biology Students in Coimbra (April 24-27, 2025). This presentation will explore the groundbreaking discoveries on how paternal nutrition, particularly dietary choices, can profoundly influence not only sperm quality but also the long-term health and developmental trajectories of subsequent generations.
The new collection from Scientific Reports (Springer Nature) focuses on Epigenetic Regulation in Metabolic Diseases. This collection welcomes original research articles that explore how changes in epigenetic regulation contribute to metabolic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and osteoporosis. This collection aims to advance our understanding of how epigenetic modifications interact with genetic and environmental factors, ultimately influencing disease progression and potential therapeutic strategies.
Researchers are invited to submit their original work to contribute to this important field.
For more details and submission guidelines, visit Scientific Reports.
We are pleased to announce that our Instruct ECR proposal (PID 36192) has successfully passed scientific evaluation and received positive feedback from the selection panel. This approval allows us to proceed with organizing our visits to the facility at the University of Joensuu (Finland) to conduct proteomics research.
A big thank you to Instruct Tech-Sci for this opportunity! Stay tuned for further updates on our research progress.
Our latest review, published in Antioxidants (MDPI), is highlighted in the newsletter of the Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE) of Aveiro.
Check it out here!
Our latest review, published in Antioxidants (MDPI), explores whether lifestyle interventions can counteract the oxidative damage and inflammation caused by obesity in the testis. We discuss how caloric restriction and physical exercise may help reverse these negative effects.
Check it out here!
Pedro F. Oliveira has been awarded the title of Associate Professor with Habilitation. The habilitation process included the evaluation of his academic, professional, scientific, and pedagogical curriculum, the discussion of his course report on "Biochemistry of Andrology", and a seminar on "Testicular Metabolic Cooperation". The jury, composed of Professors Maria da Conceição Calhau, Manuel António Coimbra, Raquel Soares, and Manuel Bicho, unanimously approved his habilitation.
Congratulations!
In an interview on Antena 1’s 90 Segundos de Ciência, Professor Marco Alves, highlighted the need to prioritize male health in fertility treatments, advocating for more rigorous evaluation and precise sperm selection to improve outcomes in assisted reproduction.
Listen here!
João Ribeiro recently completed his doctoral defense, presenting his thesis entitled: "SpermChannels: CFTR and Aquaglyceroporins as Key Modulators of Sperm Function." Spanning 7 peer-reviewed papers, João's research sheds light on the critical roles of ion channels and aquaglyceroporins in regulating sperm physiology, with implications for male fertility. His work provides new insights into how CFTR and aquaglyceroporins influence sperm motility, volume regulation, and overall functionality.
Congratulations!
You can check some of his work here!
We were proud to be part of the Organizing Committee for the Portuguese Society of Biochemistry meeting, hosted by the University of Aveiro from October 24-26.
The groundbreaking discovery of microRNAs, honored by this year's Nobel Prize in Medicine and Physiology, has opened up exciting new possibilities in many fields, including reproductive medicine. Following the Nobel announcement, media attention has focused on recent findings published by our group in Andrology that link specific sperm microRNAs to sperm motility and embryo quality. This research holds promise for improving the success rates of assisted reproduction techniques. Congratulations!!
Check it in here!
We were proud to be part of the Organizing Committee 4th International Conference on Natural Products and Human Health , hosted by the University of Aveiro from September 18-20.
Professor Marco G. Alves and Professor Pedro F. Oliveira, principal investigators from our lab, are featured in the latest rankings of the most influential scientists worldwide, as part of a study conducted by Stanford University. Based on citation metrics from Elsevier’s Scopus database, the study highlights the researchers' significant contributions to their respective fields.
Check it in here!
The University of Aveiro highlights that they are among the 86 scientists from the institution recognized for their high citation impact in 2023, underscoring their pivotal role in advancing scientific knowledge and reinforcing the university’s reputation as a leading hub of research excellence.
Check it in here!
Our new study published in the journal Andrology has identified two microRNAs in sperm that could help predict both sperm motility and the developmental competence of embryos. We found that the levels of miR-34c-5p and miR-191-3p in sperm were correlated with these important factors, suggesting their potential use as biomarkers in assisted reproduction. This discovery can lead to improved methods for selecting the best sperm for fertilization, ultimately increasing the chances of success for couples undergoing fertility treatments.
Check it in here!
Prof. Marco G. Alves was recently interviewed by the Aging Pathobiology and Therapeutics Interview. The interview includes a set of questions about our work and his experience as a scientist. Check it in here!
Atrazine (ATZ), a widely used herbicide known for its potent endocrine-disrupting properties, has been implicated in hormonal disturbances and fertility issues. However, few studies have unraveled the molecular mechanisms by which ATZ affects sperm and testicular cells. Our research has demonstrated that ATZ impairs the glycolytic function of Sertoli cells by downregulating lactate dehydrogenase. Given that lactate is the preferred energy substrate for germ cells, ATZ exposure may negatively impact the nutritional support essential for spermatogenesis, suggesting a link between ATZ exposure and male infertility. Go read it here!
Our latest publication is currently featured on the spotlight section of the University of Aveiro webpage, showcasing the significant findings of our research. Have a look here!
Our recent publication in Nature Reviews Urology offers insights into the intricate interplay between high-fat diets, metabolic disorders, and their impact on testicular metabolism and spermatogenesis. Furthermore, we explore the intricate mechanisms through which metabolic disorders shape the epigenetic landscape of male gametes. This exploration unveils a potential avenue for understanding how phenotype traits could be transmitted across generations, shedding light on the broader implications of metabolic health beyond individual well-being. Have a look here!
Our international research collaboration with Prof. Ariane Zamoner from the Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil was recently highlighted. Our joint efforts, culminating in a publication in the journal Nature Aging, discusses the potential for reversing age-related transformations in Sertoli cells through targeted therapy. This work has generated significant interest within the university's post-graduate program, underscoring the impact of this international partnership.
Check it in here!
Our group has recently published a News&Views paper on Nature Aging. There, we discuss a mechanism driving testosterone decline and systemic aging: the transformation of Sertoli cells, vital for sperm production, into a dysfunctional state characterized by fat accumulation and impaired cellular recycling. This age-related transformation can be reversed using targeted therapy. This breakthrough offers hope for alleviating testosterone deficiency and other symptoms associated with male aging, paving the way for treatments that improve health and enhance the quality of life as men grow older.
Check it in here!
David Carrageta recently completed his doctoral defense, presenting his thesis entitled: "Metabolic Modulation of Mitochondrial Uncoupling Proteins and Insulin on Human Spermatozoa and Sertoli Cells." Spanning 8 peer-reviewed papers, one of which was published in Nature Reviews Urology, David delves into the nuanced interplay of metabolic and hormonal factors influencing male fertility. Congratulations!
We're excited to announce the publication of our recent paper in the Vascular Pharmacology Journal, which delves into the application of real-time analyzers for assessing mitochondrial quality in endothelial cells and oxidative stress in preeclampsia. Our findings underscore the importance of conducting comprehensive investigations to shed light on the complexities of mitochondrial dynamics within the realm of this pregnancy-related disorder. Have a look here!
Our new paper published in Journal of Biological Regulators and Homeostatic Agents describes a propensity for increased levels of various amino acids in seminal fluid with advancing age. The paper provides compelling evidence of age exerting a discernible influence on the comprehensive seminal metabolome. Have a look here!
We are pleased to announce the publication of our paper titled "Impact of Chromium Picolinate on Leydig Cell Steroidogenesis and Antioxidant Balance Using an In Vitro Insulin Resistance Model." This study underscores the importance of caution when considering the use of chromium picolinate, even at lower doses. We uncovered mechanisms of the complex interplay between chromium picolinate and Leydig cell metabolism, as well as antioxidant defenses. We show potential benefits and risks associated with chromium picolinate use, particularly in the context of insulin resistance, in Leydig cells which are known for producing testosterone! Have a look here!
In this study, we have integrated metabolomics with the standardized morphological classification of embryos to pinpoint biomarkers that can enhance the selection of optimal embryos for transfer. During the initial 3 days of culture, Good and Lagging embryos were observed to export and accumulate pyruvate and glutamine, whereas Bad embryos exhibited a consumption pattern for these metabolites. This indicates that Bad embryos display lower metabolic activity compared to their Good and Lagging counterparts, with pyruvate and glutamine emerging as potential biomarkers for assessing embryo quality. The synergistic application of morphological assessment and metabolomics promises a more precise and consistent identification of high-quality embryos, thereby enhancing the likelihood of successful pregnancies. You can read it here.
We participated in a metabolomics-based study in patients with lung adenocarcinoma. Although our initial pursuit aimed at identifying metabolomic patterns to forecast individual outcomes of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, no distinct pattern emerged within our sample. Nonetheless, our discoveries illuminate a potential avenue for further exploration. Notably, the suggestion that higher glucose levels and lower lactate levels throughout chemotherapy may be correlated with favorable tumor response warrants deeper investigation. Conversely, lower levels of alanine seem to be indicative of greater frailty, disease progression, and an unfavorable prognosis. You can read it here.
In the past few decades, the surging incidence of metabolic disorders, particularly obesity and overweight conditions, has become a prominent issue in public health. An intriguing hypothesis emerges when considering transgenerational inheritance—the idea that genetic and epigenetic imprints linked to obesity might exert a significant impact on the onset of Prostate Cancer. This paper delves into the intricate mechanisms by which obesity disrupts prostate homeostasis, acting as a catalyst for the initiation of prostate cancer. Additionally, we explore the fascinating interplay between the transgenerational transmission of obesity-related traits and the predisposition to prostate cancer. You can read it here.