Department of Clinical
and Biological Sciences
University of Turin
ANNUAL REPORT
2014
DIRECTOR: Prof. Mario DE MARCHI
INDEX
ADAPTED TRAINING AND PERFORMANCE TEAMS (A.T.P.T.) 1
Dr. Massimiliano GOLLIN, Assistant Professor
APPLIED BIOLOGY 3
Prof. Saverio F. RETTA, Associate Professor
BIOSTATISTICS 5
Prof. Giuseppe MIGLIARETTI, Associate Professor
CELL BIOLOGY 10
Prof. Salvatore BOZZARO, Full Professor
CELLULAR NEUROBIOLOGY 11
Prof. Isabelle PERROTEAU, Full Professor
CLINICAL PATHOLOGY AND NEPHROLOGY
Prof. Dario ROCCATELLO, Full Professor
ENDOCRINOLOGY, DIABETOLGY AND METABOLISM 18
Dott. Roberta GIORDANO, Assistant Professor
EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND CLINICAL PATHOLOGY 20
Prof. Giuseppina BARRERA, Associate Professor
FARMACOLOGY 22
Dr. Giovanni N. BERTA, Assistant Professor
GENERAL PATHOLOGY 24
Dr. Riccardo AUTELLI, Assistant Professor
GENERAL PATHOLOGY - CANCER CACHEXIA 26
Prof. Gabriella BONELLI, Full professor
GENERAL PATHOLOGY - LABORATORY FOR THE STUDY OF NUTRITION
AND METABOLIC DISORDERS 28
Prof. Manuela ARAGNO, Associate Professor
GENERAL PATHOLOGY AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 30
Prof. Giuseppe POLI, Full Professor
HEMATOLOGY AND STEM CELL TRANSPLANTATION LABORATORY 33
Prof. Daniela CILLONI, Associate Professor
HUMAN ANATOMY 36
Prof. Maria G. ROBECCHI, Full Professor
HUMAN AND INDUSTRIAL TOXICOLOGY 39
Dr. Giovanni MAINA, Assistant Professor
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MEDICAL GENETICS - HUMAN GENETICS GROUP 41
Prof. Claudia GIACHINO, Associate Professor
HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY - CARDIOVASCULAR PHYSIOLOGY 43
Prof. Pasquale PAGLIARO, Associate Professor
INTERNAL MEDICINE 3 - METABOLIC DISEASE UNIT 46
Prof. Angelo GUERRASIO, Associate Professor
INTERNAL MEDICINE I 48
Prof. Massimo TERZOLO, Associate Professor
IRON METABOLISM 52
Prof. Giuseppe SAGLIO, Full Professor
LIVER & GUT PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 55
Prof. Maurizio PAROLA, Full Professor
MOLECULAR ONCO-HEMATOLOGY 57
Dr. Alessandro MOROTTI, Assistant Professor
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 59
Prof. Michele DE BORTOLI, Full Professor
MOLECULAR VIROLOGY AND ANTIVIRAL RESEARCH 62
Prof. David LEMBO, Associate Professor
NEPHROLOGY AND CLINICAL NUTRITION 65
Prof. Paolo AVAGNINA, Associate Professor
NEUROLOGY 69
Prof. Luca DURELLI, Full Professor
OBSTRUCTIVE LUNG DISEASE 71
Prof. Fabio L.M. RICCIARDOLO, Assistant Professor
PEDIATRICS 74
Prof. Antonio G. PIGA, Associate Professor
PHARMACOLOGY AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SERVICE 77
Prof. Silvia RACCA, Associate Professor
PSYCHIATRY 79
Dr. Rocco Luigi PICCI, Assistant Professor
ROLE OF IRON METABOLISM PROTEINS IN HEMATOLOGIC MALIGNANCIES 81
Dr.Marco DE GOBBI, Assistant Professor
Research Team
www.unito.it/dscb
ADAPTED TRAINING AND PERFORMANCE TEAMS (A.T.P.T.)
Dr. Massimiliano
GOLLIN Assistant Professor
Dr. Luca
BERATTO PhD Student
Dr. Marco
ALESSANDRIA PhD Student
Dr. Luca
BASEGGIO Technical Assistant
Test
Dr. Alessandro
BINELLI Technical Assistant
Test
Dr. Ruben
ALLOIS Technical Assistant
Test
Dr. Federico
ABATE DAGA Technical Assistant
Test
Current Research Projects
Current research projects are focused in these main directions:
To investigate gate differences between asymmetric and symmetric sport disciplines to
prevent muscle damages.
To investigate whether adapted physical activity can promote brain plasticity in Parkinson's
desease.
To investigate the influence of a short circuit training (program) performed with elastic
bands in wheelchair basketball athletes.
To investigate the influence of multifactorial neuromuscular stimulation through adapted
physical activity in multiple sclerosis.
To investigate whether masticatory cycle analysis can be a prevention screening in multiple
sclerosis.
To investigate the effect of core stability and proprioceptive unbalance exercises in Parkinson's
desease.
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Research products
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Books
Gollin M., Metodologia della preparazione fisica, Elika Edizioni, Cesena 2014.
Book chapters
Gollin M., Autore dei Capitoli II e VII del libro Preparazione allo sport: manuale per la
preparazione fisica di base. Ed. SDS, Roma 2014: 59-80; 135-154 – ISBN: 9788897337102.
International journal
Mental health & physical activity
Roppolo M, Mulasso A, Gollin M, Bertolotto A, Ciairano S The role of fatigue in the
associations between exercise and psychological health in multiple sclerosis: direct and indirect
effects, Mental Health & Physical Activity, 2013 (accepted) 6: 87-94 – ISSN 1755-2966.
Medicina dello sport
Gollin M, Beratto L, Strength exercise with and without self-adapted mouthguard: an acute
study. Int J Sports Med. 2014 Sep (in press).
National journal
Sport school journal
Gollin M, Beratto L,, Allois R., Serravite N, Mazzei P, L’allenamento della forza con
sovraccarichi e il wheelchair tennis: studio longitudinale, SDS - Rivista di Cultura Sportiva, 2014,
102: 61-66.
Gollin M,, Gualtieri A, Baseggio L, L’influenza della stimolazione sonora sulla prestazione
di forza, SDS - Rivista di Cultura Sportiva, 2014, 101: 47-51.
Gollin M., Beratto Luca, Abate Daga F., Effetti ritardati dell’attività di elongazione
muscolo-tendinea di breve durata, SDS - Rivista di Cultura Sportiva, 2013, (98): 65-70 - ISSN:
1125-1891.
Gollin M. , Piancino MG, Rainoldi A, Bracco P, L’allenamento della forza dinamica e
l’utilizzo del bite, SDS - Rivista di Cultura Sportiva, 2013, (96): 55-62 - ISSN: 1125-1891.
Strength & cinditioning
Gollin m., Guerra A., Le variazioni circadiane dell’efficienza fisica nella lotta greco romana
(seconda parte), strength conditioning (Italy), 2014, 8: 40-44, issn: 2281-3772.
Gollin M., Guerra A., le variazioni circadiane dell’efficienza fisica nella lotta greco romana
(prima parte), strength conditioning (Italy), 2013, 7: 39-41, issn: 2281-3772.
Gollin M., Beratto L., baseggio luca, luciano a., forza, estensibilità muscolo-tendinea e
stretching statico, strength conditioning (Italy), 2013, 4: 37-41, issn: 2281-3772.
Sport science
Gollin M., Beratto Luca PhDc, Mazza C, Roppolo M PhDc, Mulasso A PhDc, Il ruolo
dell’esercizio fisico adattato in soggetti con SM: metodo pilates vs stretching statico, Scienza e
Sport (Italy), 2014, 24: 74-79 SSN: 2039-0726.
Gollin M., Allois R., Binelli A., Il Kinesiotaping e la prestazione di forza, Scienza e Sport
(Italy), 2014, 22: 66-71, ISSN: 2039-0726.
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APPLIED BIOLOGY
Prof. Saverio F.
RETTA Associate Professor
Dr. Luca
GOITRE Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Eliana
TRAPANI PhD Student
Current Research Projects
Current research focuses on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis to
of Cerebral Cavernous Malformations (CCM), a major cerebrovascular disease of proven genetic
origin affecting 0.3-0.5% of the general population. It is characterized by abnormally enlarged and
leaky capillaries that predispose to seizures, focal neurological deficits and intracerebral
hemorrhage. However, CCM lesions occur in a range of different phenotypes, including wide
differences in lesion number, size and susceptibility to intracerebral hemorrhage, suggesting that
multiple factors can contribute to CCM disease pathogenesis. Indeed, only approximately 30% of
people with CCM lesions eventually develop symptoms, which usually show an age-dependent
onset and progression.
Pharmacological treatment is not yet available; however, the characterization of molecular
mechanisms underlying CCM disease is providing fundamental insights into the development of
novel therapeutic approaches.
Major current research projects on this topic are the following:
Characterization of molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of
Cerebral Cavernous Malformations (CCM);
Identification of risk factors of diagnostic and prognostic value associated with onset,
progression and severity of CCM disease;
Multidisciplinary and integrative research approaches involving multiple clinical and basic
research groups of the CCM_Italia network (http://www.ccmitalia.unito.it/) for the
development of novel, safe and effective pharmacological therapies for CCM disease
prevention and treatment.
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Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Gibson C., Zhu W., Davis C.T., Bowman-Kirigin J.A., Chan A.C., Ling J., Walker A.E.,
Goitre L., Delle Monache S., Retta S.F., Shiu Y-T E., Grossmann A.H., Thomas K.R., Donato
A.J., Lesniewski L.A., Whitehead K.J., Li D.J. Strategy for Identifying Repurposed Drugs for
the Treatment of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation. Circulation 2014, in press.
Fontanella MM, Panciani PP, Spena G, Roca E, Migliorati K, Ambrosi C, Sturiale CL, Retta
SF (2014) Professional athletes and cerebral cavernomas: an obstacle to overcome. Sports
Med Phys Fitness. 2014 Mar 18. [Epub ahead of print].
Goitre L, De Luca E, Braggion S, Trapani E, Guglielmotto M, Biasi F, Forni M, Moglia A,
Trabalzini L, Retta SF. (2014) KRIT1 loss of function causes a ROS-dependent upregulation
of c-Jun. Free Radic Biol Med., 68C:134-147.
Goitre L, Trapani E, Trabalzini L, Retta SF (2014) The ras superfamily of small GTPases: the
unlocked secrets. Methods Mol Biol. 2014;1120:1-18.
Ferro E, Goitre L, Baldini E, Retta SF, Trabalzini L. (2014) Ras GTPases are both regulators
and effectors of redox agents. Methods Mol Biol. 2014;1120:55-74.
Goitre L, Retta SF (2014) Combined pulldown and time-lapse microscopy studies for
determining the role of Rap1 in the crosstalk between integrins and cadherins. Methods Mol
Biol. 2014;1120:177-95.
Goitre L, Cutano V, Retta SF. (2014) Fluorescence microscopy study of Rap1 subcellular
localization. Methods Mol Biol. 2014;1120:197-205.
Maddaluno L, Rudini N, Cuttano R, Bravi L, Giampietro C, Corada M, Ferrarini L, Orsenigo
F, Papa E, Boulday G, Tournier-Lasserve E, Chapon F, Richichi C, Retta SF, Lampugnani
MG, Dejana E. (2013) EndMT contributes to the onset and progression of cerebral cavernous
malformations. Nature, 27;498(7455):492-6.
Di Gregorio E, Bianchi FT, Schiavi A, Chiotto AM, Rolando M, Verdun di Cantogno L,
Grosso E, Cavalieri S, Calcia A, Lacerenza D, Zuffardi O, Retta SF, Stevanin G, Marelli C,
Durr A, Forlani S, Chelly J, Montarolo F, Tempia F, Beggs HE, Reed R, Squadrone S, Abete
MC, Brussino A, Ventura N, Di Cunto F, Brusco A. (2013) A de novo X;8 translocation
creates a PTK2-THOC2 gene fusion with THOC2 expression knockdown in a patient with
psychomotor retardation and congenital cerebellar hypoplasia. J Med Genet, 50(8):543-51.
Orso F, Balzac F, Marino M, Lembo A, Retta SF, Taverna D. (2013) miR-21 coordinates
tumor growth and modulates KRIT1 levels. Biochem Biophys Res Commun, 16;438(1):90-6.
Bacigaluppi S, Retta S.F., Pileggi S, Fontanella M, Goitre L, Tassi L, La Camera A, Citterio
A, Patrosso MC, Tredici G, Penco S. (2013) Genetic and cellular basis of Cerebral Cavernous
Malformations: implications for clinical management. Clinical Genetics, 83(1):7-14.
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BIOSTATISTICS
Prof. Giuseppe
MIGLIARETTI Associate Professor
Dr Paola
BERCHIALLA Assistant Professor
Current Research Projects
1. Clinical Epidemiology
Efficacy of Growth Hormone therapy (Regional GH Register of Piedmont)
Principal aims:
1. Monitoring the patients treated with GH therapy in Piedmont in the years
2. Evaluation of the efficacy of the treatment using estimated growth curves based on
Bayesian approach
Telemedicine in head injuries (TEMPORE project)
Principal aim: evaluating influence of pain management and relief on the prognosis of patients both
in term of functional recovery and quality of life.
Lung Cancer in young adults: an epidemiological prospective multicenter study
Principal aim: to create a multi-institutional network involving national and international Leader
Institutions in the field of lung cancer research, facing, for the first time, a unique pts
population in order to develop an interactive communication specifically dedicated to young lung
cancer pts.
Epidemiology of Autism in Piedmont
Principal aims:
1. Incidence of Autism in Piedmont in the period 2002-2014 will be estimated and
investiagted using a specific analysis of trend;
2. Using a Bayesian approach, a spatial analysis will be performed to describe the risk of
disease associated to geographical variation.
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2. Methodological research interest, motivated by biomedical research questions
(i) Graphical models for exploring probabilistic relationships among variables and conditional
independencies in the associated probability models with application in a wide range of fields:
epidemiology of foreign body injuries in children, quantitative risk assessment of adverse
cardiovascular events, association of biochemical and clinical factors on fetal growth outcome,
causation and causal inference;
(ii) Hierarchical Bayesian models for integrating data from multiple data sources and Bayesian
Model Averaging, as approach to inference in presence of different competing models;
(iii) Bayesian Design for Phase I/II Clinical Trials
3. Medical education research and evaluation
The research group is actually involved in the evaluation of research and teaching activities of the
DSCB and the San Luigi University hospital. Within this context, multi-criteria decision methods
have been assessed for evaluating medical care, research and teaching activities carried out by
operational units and automation of a computer application has been developed.
4. Statistical applications
Collaborative support and assistance is provided in all areas of biostatistical expertise, including
designing studies with appropriate sample size and power and statistical analysis of both clinical
and biological data.
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Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Baldi I, Pagano E, Berchialla P, Desideri, Ferrando, Merletti F, Gregori D. Modeling health
care costs in simultaneouss presence of asymmetry, heteroscedasticity and correlation.
Journal of Applied Statitsics 2013; 40(2): 298-310.
Berchialla P, Gangemi EN, Foltran F, Haxhiaj A, Buja A, Lazzarato F, Stella M, Gregori D.
Predicting Severity of Pathological Scarring Due to Burn Injuries: a Clinical Decision Making
Tool Using Bayesian Networks. International Wound Journal 2014 June; 11(3):246-252.
Berchialla P, Scaioli G, Passi S, Gianino MM. Adverse events in hospitalized pediatric
patients: a systematic review and a meta-regression analysis. Journal of Evaluation in
Clinical Practice 2014 20(5): 551-8.
Berchialla P., Scarinzi, C., Snidero, S., Gregori, D. Comparing Models for Quantitative Risk
Assessment: an Application to the European Registry of Foreign Body Injuries in Children.
Statistical Methods in Medical Research 2013 Feb 19 [Epub ahead of print].
Bistolfi A, Lee GC, Deledda D, Rosso F, Berchialla P, Crova M, Massazza G. NexGen® LPS
mobile bearing total knee arthroplasty: 10 year results. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc
2014 22(8): -1786-92.
Bistolfi A, Massazza, Crova, Lee, Deledda, Berchialla P, Crova. Long Term, Prospective
Comparison of Fixed Bearing versus Mobile Bearing TKA. Journal of Bone and Joint
Surgery 2013 Jun 19; 95(12): e83.
Borrelli I, Casalis Cavalchini GC, Del Peschio S, Micheletti M, Venesio T, Sarotto I,
Allavena A, Delsedine L, Barberis MA, Mandrile G, Berchialla P, Ogliara P, Bracco C, Pasini
B. A founder MLH1 mutation in Lynch Syndrome families from Piedmont, Italy, is
associated with an increased risk of pancreatic tumours and diverse immunohistochemical
patterns. Familial Cancer 2014 13(3): 401-13.
Charrier L, Berchialla P, Galeano D, Spizzichino L, Borraccino A, Lemma P, Dalmasso P,
Cavallo F. Smoking Habits among Italian Adolescents: What Has Changed in the Last
Decade? BioMed Research International 2014.
Ciccone MM, Sharma RK, Scicchitano P, Cortese F, Salerno C, Berchialla P, Frasso G,
Sassara M, Carbone M, Palmiero P, Maiello M, Voelker DJ, Reddy HK, Federico F.
Dolichocatotids: Echo-Color Doppler Evaluation and Clinical Role. Atherosclerosis and
Thrombosis 2014 Jan 23;21(1):56-63.
Gonella S, Berchialla P, Bruno B, Di Giulio P. Are orange lollies effective in preventing
nausea and vomiting related to Dymethyl Sulfoxide? A multicenter randomized trial.
Supportive Care Cancer 2014 22(9):2417-24.
Gregori D, Ballali S, Vogele, C, Galasso F, Widhalm K, Berchialla P, Baldi I. What is the
Value Given by Consumers to Nutritional Label Information? Results from a Large
Investigation in Europe. Journal of the American College of Nutrition 2014.
Gregori D, Ballali S, Vecchio MG, Sciré AS, Foltran F, Berchialla P. Randomized Controlled
Trials Evaluating Effect of Television Advertising on Food Intake in Children: Why Such a
Sensitive Topic is Lacking Top-Level Evidence? Ecology of Food and Nutrition 2014 53(5):
562-577.
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Lazzeri G, Giacchi MV, Dalmasso P, Vieno A, Nardone P, Lamberti A, Spinelli A, Cavallo F;
HBSC 2010 Group. The methodology of the Italian HBSC 2010 study (Health Behaviour in
School-aged Children). Annali di Igiene 2013 May-Jun; 25(3).
Mandrile G, van Woerden CS, Berchialla P, Beck BB, Acquaviva Bourdain C, Hulton SA,
Rumsby G. Data from a large European study indicate that the outcome of primary
hyperoxaluria type 1 correlates with the AGXT mutation type. Kidney Int. 2014 Jul 2.
Migliaretti G, Berchialla P. Observational approaches in the study of the effects of Total
Suspendd Particulates (TSP) exposure. International Journal of Environmental Health
Research 2013; 23(5): 392-9.
Migliaretti G, Berchialla P, Dalmasso P, Cavallo F, Chiò A. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in
Piedmont (Italy): a Bayesian spatial analysis of the incident cases. Amyotroph Lateral Scler
Frontotemporal Degener. 2013 Jan;14(1):58-65.
Migliaretti G, Ciaramitano P, Berchialla P, Scarinzi C, Andrini R, Orlando A, Faccani G.
Teleconsulting for minor head injury: the Piedmont experience. Journal of telemedicine and
telecare. 2013 Jan 19(1):33-5.
Navone ND, Perga S, Martire S, Berchialla P, Malucchi M, Bertolotto A. Monocytes and
CD4+ T cells contribution to the under-expression of NR4A2 and TNFAIP3 genes in patients
with multiple sclerosis. J Neuroimmunol 2014 272(1-2):99.102 pii: S0165-5728(14)00142-8.
Patrono D, Paraluppi G, Perino M, Palisi M, Migliaretti G, Berchialla P, Romagnoli R,
Salizzoni M. Posthepatectomy liver failure after simultaneous versus staged resection of
colorectal cancer and synchronous hepatic metastases. Giornale di Chirurgia 2014 Mar-Apr;
35(3-4): 86-93.
Pineiro ALM, Ballali S, Berchialla P, Chiffi D, del Socorro del Rio Angulo M, Giunta F,
Stanchi R, Gregori D. Feeding Children in Rural Area: Proper Nutrition and Psycho-Social
Development. The Open Obesity Journal, 2013, 5, (Suppl 1:M2) 14-21.
Salerno C., Berchialla P., Palin L., Panella M. [Cancer survival in a local health district in
Piemonte (Italy): follow up to 2007]. Igiene e Sanità Pubblica 2013 Jan-Feb; 69(1):39-46.
Salerno C, Berchialla P, Palin LA, Barasolo E, Vanhaecht K, Panella M. Geographical and
epidemiological analysis of oncological mortality in Municipality of North-Western Italy
Vercelli years 2000-2009 [Italian]. Annali di Igiene, 2014, 26(2): 157-66.
Sandri M, Berchialla P, Baldi I, Gregori D, De Blasi R. Dynamic Bayesian Networks to
predict sequences of organ failures in patients admitted to ICU. Journal of Biomedical
Informatics, 2014 48:106-13.
Sicuro J, Bondonio P, Charrier L, Berchialla P, Cavallo F, Porta M, Trento M, Cost analysis
of group versus usual care in patients with type 2 diabetes in the ROMEO clinical trial.
Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases 2013 Feb; 23(2):e13-4 (Letter to the
editor) dx.
Sicuro J, Charrier L, Berchialla P, Cavallo F, Merlo S, Mazzeo A, Porta M, Trento M. Self
Management Education by Group Care Reduces Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Type 2
Diabetes. Analysis of the ROMEO Clinical Trial. Diabetes Care 2014, 37(9):e192-3.
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Terzolo M, Allasino B, Pia A, Peraga G, Daffara F, Laino F, Ardito A, Termine A, Paccotti P,
Berchialla P, Migliaretti G, Reimondo G. Surgical Remission of Cushing’s syndrome reduces
cardiovascular risk. Eur J Endocrinology 2014 171(1):127-36.
Vecchio MG, Berchialla P, Didier N, Cayul O, Valdenegro D, Ghidina M, Gregori D. The
IBAI Instrument to Assess Brand Awareness Toward Food in Children: the Chile Adaptation.
The Open Obesity Journal, 2013, 5, (Suppl 1:M4) 30-35.
Vecchio MG, Ghidina M, Gulati A, Berchialla P, Paramesh EC, Gregori D. Measuring Brand
Awareness as a Component of Eating Habits in Indian Children: The Development of the
IBAI Questionnaire. Indian J Pediatr 2014.
Vernone A, Berchialla P, Pescarmona G. Human Protein Cluster Analysis using Amino acids
Frequencies. PLoS One. 2013 Apr 4; 8(4): e60220.
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CELL BIOLOGY
Prof. Salvatore
BOZZARO Full Professor
Dr. Barbara
PERGOLIZZI Assistant Professor
Dr. Barbara
PERACINO ResearchTechnician
Dr.Simona
BURACCO PhD student
Current Research Projects
Investigating role and mechanism of action of the Nramp family of iron transporters in the model
organism Dictyostelium
Identifying genes involved in iron homeostasis
Investigating gene networks regulating phagocytosis and host-pathogen interactions
investigating the role of a master ubiquitin ligase in chemotaxis and development
Lab homepage:
http://www.personalweb.unito.it/salvatore.bozzaro/
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CELLULAR NEUROBIOLOGY
Prof. Isabelle
PERROTEAU Full Professor
Dr. Giovanna
GAMBAROTTA Assistant Professor
Dr. Giulia
RONCHI Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Benedetta E.
FORNASARI PhD Student
Current Research Projects
The current research projects are focused on:
the study of gene expression regulation in the peripheral nerve following nerve injury - focusing
the attention on genes involved in Schwann cell survival, migration and remyelination – with the
final aim of promoting nerve regeneration;
the study of the signal transduction pathways activated downstream different isoforms of ErbB4
and neuregulin1, genes known to confer susceptibility to Schizophrenia.
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Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Gambarotta G, Ronchi G, Geuna S, Perroteau I. Neuregulin 1 isoforms could be an effective
therapeutic candidate to promote peripheral nerve regeneration. Neural Regen Res. 2014
9:1183-5.
Pascal D, Giovannelli A, Gnavi S, Hoyng SA, de Winter F, Morano M, Fregnan F,
Dell'Albani P, Zaccheo D, Perroteau I, Pellitteri R, Gambarotta G. Characterization of glial
cell models and in vitro manipulation of the neuregulin1/ErbB system. Biomed Res Int.
2014:310215.
Jager SB, Ronchi G, Vaegter CB, Geuna S. The mouse median nerve experimental model in
regenerative research. Biomed Res Int. 2014:701682.
Marvaldi L, Thongrong S, Kozłowska A, Irschick R, Pritz CO, Bäumer B, Ronchi G, Geuna
S, Hausott B, Klimaschewski L. Enhanced axon outgrowth and improved long-distance axon
regeneration in sprouty2 deficient mice. Dev Neurobiol. 2014.
Gambarotta G, Ronchi G, Friard O, Galletta P, Perroteau I, Geuna S. Identification and
validation of suitable housekeeping genes for normalizing quantitative real-time PCR assays
in injured peripheral nerves. PLoS One. 2014 9:e105601.
Gnavi S, di Blasio L, Tonda-Turo C, Mancardi A, Primo L, Ciardelli G, Gambarotta G,
Geuna S, Perroteau I. Gelatin-based hydrogel for vascular endothelial growth factor release in
peripheral nerve tissue engineering. J Tissue Eng Regen Med. 2014.
Tonda-Turo C, Gnavi S, Ruini F, Gambarotta G, Gioffredi E, Chiono V, Perroteau I, Ciardelli
G. Development and characterization of novel agar and gelatin injectable hydrogel as filler for
peripheral nerve guidance channels. J Tissue Eng Regen Med. 2014.
Fregnan F, Gnavi S, Macrì L, Perroteau I, Gambarotta G.The four isoforms of the tyrosine
kinase receptor ErbB4 provide neural progenitor cells with an adhesion preference for the
transmembrane type III isoform of the ligand neuregulin 1. Neuroreport. 2014 25:233-41.
Faroni A, Castelnovo LF, Procacci P, Caffino L, Fumagalli F, Melfi S, Gambarotta G, Bettler
B, Wrabetz L, Magnaghi V.Deletion of GABA-B receptor in Schwann cells regulates remak
bundles and small nociceptive C-fibers. Glia. 2014 62:548-565.
Borrione P, Grasso L, Chierto E, Geuna S, Racca S, Abbadessa G, Ronchi G, Faiola F, Di
Gianfrancesco A, Pigozzi F. Experimental model for the study of the effects of platelet-rich
plasma on the early phases of muscle healing. Blood Transfus. 2014 Suppl 1:s221-8.
Gambarotta G, Fregnan F, Gnavi S, Perroteau I. Neuregulin 1 role in Schwann cell regulation
and potential applications to promote peripheral nerve regeneration. Int Rev Neurobiol.
2013;108:223-56.
Haastert-Talini K, Geuna S, Dahlin LB, Meyer C, Stenberg L, Freier T, Heimann C, Barwig
C, Pinto LF, Raimondo S, Gambarotta G, Samy SR, Sousa N, Salgado AJ, Ratzka A, Wrobel
S, Grothe C. Chitosan tubes of varying degrees of acetylation for bridging peripheral nerve
defects. Biomaterials. 2013 38:9886-904.
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Geuna S, Perroteau I, Tos P, Battiston B.Peripheral nerve repair is no longer a matter of
surgical reconstruction only. Int Rev Neurobiol. 2013;109:xi-xii.
Geuna S, Perroteau I, Tos P, Battiston B. Preface. tissue engineering of the peripheral nerve:
stem cells and regeneration promoting factors. Int Rev Neurobiol. 2013;108:xiii-xiv.
Geuna S, Gnavi S, Perroteau I, Tos P, Battiston B. Tissue engineering and peripheral nerve
reconstruction: an overview. Int Rev Neurobiol. 2013;108:35-57.
Tos P, Ronchi G, Geuna S, Battiston B. Future perspectives in nerve repair and regeneration.
Int Rev Neurobiol. 2013;109:165-92.
Raimondo S, Ronchi G, Geuna S, Pascal D, Reano S, Filigheddu N, Graziani A. Ghrelin: a
novel neuromuscular recovery promoting factor? Int Rev Neurobiol. 2013;108:207-21.
Moimas S, Novati F, Ronchi G, Zacchigna S, Fregnan F, Zentilin L, Papa G, Giacca M,
Geuna S, Perroteau I, Arnež ZM, Raimondo S. Effect of vascular endothelial growth factor
gene therapy on post-traumatic peripheral nerve regeneration and denervation-related muscle
atrophy. Gene Ther. 2013 20:1014-21.
Tonda-Turo C, Cipriani E, Gnavi S, Chiono V, Mattu C, Gentile P, Perroteau I, Zanetti M,
Ciardelli G. Crosslinked gelatin nanofibres: preparation, characterisation and in vitro studies
using glial-like cells. Mater Sci Eng C Mater Biol Appl. 2013 33:2723-35.
Porporato PE, Filigheddu N, Reano S, Ferrara M, Angelino E, Gnocchi VF, Prodam F,
Ronchi G, Fagoonee S, Fornaro M, Chianale F, Baldanzi G, Surico N, Sinigaglia F, Perroteau
I, Smith RG, Sun Y, Geuna S, Graziani A. Acylated and unacylated ghrelin impair skeletal
muscle atrophy in mice. J Clin Invest. 2013 123:611-22.
Moimas S, Novati F, Ronchi G, Zacchigna S, Fregnan F, Zentilin L, Papa G, Giacca M,
Geuna S, Perroteau I, Arnež ZM, Raimondo S. Effect of vascular endothelial growth factor
gene therapy on post-traumatic peripheral nerve regeneration and denervation-related muscle
atrophy. Gene Ther. 2013 20:1014-21.
Jaminet P, Köhler D, Schäufele M, Rahmanian-Schwarz A, Lotter O, Fornaro M, Ronchi G,
Geuna S, Rosenberger P, Schaller HE. Evaluating the role of Netrin-1 during the early phase
of peripheral nerve regeneration using the mouse median nerve model. Restor Neurol
Neurosci. 2013;31:337-45.
Papalia I, Raimondo S, Ronchi G, Magaudda L, Giacobini-Robecchi MG, Geuna S. Repairing
nerve gaps by vein conduits filled with lipoaspirate-derived entire adipose tissue hinders
nerve regeneration. Ann Anat. 2013 195:225-30.
Porporato PE, Filigheddu N, Reano S, Ferrara M, Angelino E, Gnocchi VF, Prodam F,
Ronchi G, Fagoonee S, Fornaro M, Chianale F, Baldanzi G, Surico N, Sinigaglia F, Perroteau
I, Smith RG, Sun Y, Geuna S, Graziani A.Acylated and unacylated ghrelin impair skeletal
muscle atrophy in mice. J Clin Invest. 2013 123:611-22.
Jaminet P, Köhler D, Rahmanian-Schwarz A, Lotter O, Mager A, Fornaro M, Ronchi G,
Geuna S, Rosenberger P, Schaller HE. Expression patterns and functional evaluation of the
UNC5b receptor during the early phase of peripheral nerve regeneration using the mouse
median nerve model. Microsurgery. 2013 33:216-22.
13
CLINICAL PATHOLOGY AND NEPHROLOGY
Prof. Dario
ROCCATELLO Full Professor
Prof. Elisa
MENEGATTI Associate Professor
Dr. Simone
BALDOVINO Assistant Professor
Dr. Savino
SCIASCIA Assistant Professor
Dr. Debora
DI SIMONE Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Laura
SOLFIETTI Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Margherita
MESSINA Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Valentina
ODDONE Biomedical Laboratory
Technician
Current Research Projects
Diagnostic Research
Development of a miniaturized, automated assay for genetic testing
Anti DSG1/DSG3 and anti BP180/230 antibodies ELISA tests for diagnosis and follow-up of
autoimmune bullous dermatoses
The clinical application of the Global Antiphospholipid Syndrome Score
The clinical value of testing for anti-prothrombin and anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin
antiphospholipid antibodies
Validation of commercially available kits to detect anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin
antibodies
Analysis of the C4 gene polymorphism in patients with cryoglobulinemic vasculities
Clinical and Therapeutic Research
Evaluation of the long term effects of an original treatment protocol based on the anti- CD20
monoclonal antibody administration in patients with HCV-associated mixed cryoglobulinemia and
in ANCA-associated vasculitis
Long term effects of Rituximab in adult patients with Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy and
Focal Segmental Glomerular Sclerosis
14
Intensified B lymphocyte depletion without immunosuppressive maintenance treatment as a rescue
therapy in refractory lupus and in IgG4-related tubulointerstitial nephritis.
Use of intravenous immunoglobulin in patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematous and with active
vasculitis with concomitant infection
Biosimilars and Autoimmune Diseases
The clinical impact of new oral anticoagulants in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome patients
and previous poor anticoagulation control with vitamin K antagonists
Epidemiologic examination of data of Piedmont and Aosta Valley inter-regional network of Rare
Diseases
15
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Rollino C, Ferro M, Beltrame G, Quattrocchio G, Massara C, Quarello F, Roccatello D. Renal
biopsy in patients over 75: 131 cases. Clin Nephrol. 2014 Aug 27.
Sciascia S, Sanna G, Murru V, Roccatello D, Khamashta MA, Bertolaccini ML. The global
anti-phospholipid syndrome score in primary APS. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2014 Aug 13. pii:
keu307.
Borgio C, Mercandino S, Fantino M, Vallero A, Beltrame G, Canton AM, Sillano M, Pezzana
A, Rollino C, Roccatello. D. Low protein dinner: patients in the kitchen. G Ital Nefrol. 2014
Jul-Aug;31(4). pii: gin/31.4.16. Italian.
Sciascia S, Cuadrado MJ, Sanna G, Murru V, Roccatello D, Khamashta MA, Bertolaccini
ML. Thrombotic Risk Assessment in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Validation of the
Global Antiphospholipid Syndrome Score (GAPSS) in a prospective cohort. Arthritis Care
Res (Hoboken). 2014 Jun 25.
Sciascia S, Bertolaccini ML, Roccatello D, Khamashta MA, Sanna G. Autoantibodies
involved in neuropsychiatric manifestations associated with systemic lupus erythematosus: a
systematic review. J Neurol. 2014 Jun 21.
Baldovino S, Menegatti E, Modena V, Maspoli M, Avanzi F, Roccatello D. Piedmont and
Aosta Valley inter-regional network in the context of the Italian National Network for rare
diseases. Blood Transfus. 2014 Apr;12 Suppl 3:s617-20. doi: 10.2450/2014.0055-14s.
Taruscio D, Kodra Y, Ferrari G, Vittozzi L; National Rare Diseases Registry Collaborating
Group. The Italian National Rare Diseases Registry.Blood Transfus. 2014 Apr;12 Suppl
3:s606-13.
Tomaselli V, D'Ambrosio D, Massarelli L, Roccatello D. Effect of ambrisentan on digital
ulcers in systemic sclerosis: a case report. Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2014 Apr 28.
Sciascia S, Cuadrado MJ, Khamashta M, Roccatello D. Renal involvement in
antiphospholipid syndrome. Nat Rev Nephrol. 2014 May;10(5):279-89. Epub 2014 Mar 18.
Capobianco M, Piccoli G, Neve Vigotti F, Scapoli P, Deagostini MC, Albera C, Roccatello D,
Bertolotto A. Interferon beta-related nephropathy and interstitial lung disease: a new
association and a long-term warning. Mult Scler. 2014 Jan 20.
Rollino C, Balbiano R, Caramello P, Roccatello D. The use of tolvaptan in a case of severe
hyponatriemia in SIADH during meningitis. G Ital Nefrol. 2013 Nov-Dec;30(6). pii:
gin/30.6.8. Italian.
Sciascia S, Sanna G, Murru V, Roccatello D, Khamashta MA, Bertolaccini ML. Anti-
prothrombin (aPT) and anti- phosphatidylserine/prothrombin (aPS/PT) antibodies and the risk
of thrombosis in the antiphospholipid syndrome. A systematic review. Thromb Haemost.
2014 Feb;111(2):354-64. Epub 2013 Oct 31.
Camara I, Sciascia S, Simoes J, Pazzola G, Salas V, Karim Y, Roccatello D, Cuadrado MJ.
Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins in systemic lupus erythematosus: a series of 52
patients from a single centre. Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2014 Jan-Feb;32(1):41-7. Epub 2013 Sep
12.
16
Roccatello D. An innovative approach to the treatment of immune-mediated glomerular
diseases. G Ital Nefrol. 2013 Jan-Feb;30(1). pii: gin/30.1.3. Italian.
Elia F, Pagnozzi F, Laface B, Aprà F, Roccatello D. A victim of the Occam's razor. Intern
Emerg Med. 2013 Dec;8(8):767-8. Epub 2013 May 9.
Mereuta OM, Baldovino S, Errichiello E, Binello GB, Restagno G, Battaglia GG, Mazzucco
G, Roccatello D. Systemic AA amyloidosis as a unique manifestation of a combined mutation
of TNFRSF1A and MEFV genes. Amyloid. 2013 Jun;20(2):122-6. Epub 2013 Mar 6.
Piccoli GB, Daidola G, Attini R, Parisi S, Fassio F, Naretto C, Deagostini MC, Castelluccia
N, Ferraresi M, Roccatello D, Todros T. Kidney biopsy in pregnancy: evidence for
counselling? A systematic narrative review. BJOG. 2013 Mar;120(4):412-27. Epub 2013 Jan
15. Review.
Sciascia S, Sanna G, Murru V, Roccatello D, Khamashta MA, Bertolaccini ML. GAPSS: the
Global Anti-Phospholipid Syndrome Score. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2013 Aug;52(8):1397-
403. Epub 2013 Jan 12.
Menegatti E, Berardi D, Messina M, Ferrante I, Giachino O, Spagnolo B, Restagno G,
Cognolato L, Roccatello D. Lab-on-a-chip: emerging analytical platforms for immune-
mediated diseases. Autoimmun Rev. 2013 Jun;12(8):814-20. Epub 2012 Dec 6. Review.
Bazzan M, Vaccarino A, Stella S, Bertero MT, Carignola R, Montaruli B, Roccatello D,
Shoenfeld Y; Piedmont APS Consortium. Thrombotic recurrences and bleeding events in
APS vascular patients: a review from the literature and a comparison with the APS Piedmont
Cohort. Autoimmun Rev. 2013 Jun;12(8):826-31. Epub 2012 Dec 4. Review.
Roccatello D. Novel diagnostic approaches and cost-benefit balance of treatment of immune-
mediated and rare disease in the era of biologic drugs: lessons from the 15th Turin Congress
on Immune Pathology and Orphan Disease. Autoimmun Rev.2013 Jun;12:793-5. Epub 2012
Dec 4.
Rossi D, Russo A, Manna E, Binello G, Baldovino S, Sciascia S, Roccatello D. The role of
nail-videocapillaroscopy in early diagnosis of scleroderma. Autoimmun Rev. 2013
Jun;12(8):821-5. Epub 2012 Dec 4. Review.
Modena V, Bianchi G, Roccatello D. Cost-effectiveness of biologic treatment for rheumatoid
arthritis in clinical practice: an achievable target? Autoimmun Rev. 2013 Jun;12(8):835-8.
Epub 2012 Dec 3. Review.
Baldovino S, Montin D, Martino S, Sciascia S, Menegatti E, Roccatello D. Common variable
immunodeficiency: crossroads between infections, inflammation and autoimmunity.
Autoimmun Rev. 2013 Jun;12(8):796-801. Epub 2012 Dec 4. Review.
17
Research Team
ENDOCRINOLOGY, DIABETOLGY AND METABOLISM
Dr. Roberta
GIORDANO Assistant Professor
Dr. Elisa
MARINAZZO PhD Student
Federica
FUMAROLA Student
Alessia
RAMPINO Student
Current Research Projects
The current research projects are focused in four main directions:
to investigate the role of Alprazolam, a benzodiazepine activating GABA receptors, in patients
with either Cushing’s syndrome due to pituitary and adrenal adenoma or subclinical Cushing’s
syndrome
to evaluate metabolic and cardiovascular complications in patients with Cushing's syndrome and
Addison's disease, and in patients with adrenal incidentaloma
to evaluate metabolic and cardiovascular profile in patients with Turner syndrome in comparison
with patient with other form of precocious ovary insufficiency
to evaluate metabolic and cardiovascular profile in patients with adrenal insufficiency under new
glucorticoid replacement therapy with Plenadren in comparison with conventional glucocorticoid
replacement therapy
18
Research products
www.unito.it/dscb
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
R. Giordano, R. Berardelli, I. Karamouzis, V. D’Angelo, A. Picu, C. Zichi., B. Fussotto, M.
Manzo, G. Mengozzi, E. Ghigo, E. Arvat. Acute administration of Alprazolam, a
benzodiazepine activating GABA receptors, inhibits cortisol secretion in patients with
subclinical but not overt Cushing's syndrome. Pituitary; 2013 Sep;16(3):363-9.
Karamouzis, R. Berardelli, E. Marinazzo, V. D'Angelo, D. Zinna', M. Minetto, C. Zichi,
Fussotto, R. Giordano, E. Ghigo, E. Arvat. The acute effect of Fludrocortisone on basal and
hcrh-stimulated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in humans. Pituitay; 2013
Sep;16(3):378-85.
R. Scarpa, R. Alaggio, L Norberto, J. Furmaniak, S. Chen, B. Rees Smith, S. Masiero, L.
Morlin, M. Plebani, S. Cervato, F. De Luca, M.C. Salerno, R. Giordano, G. Radetti, L.
Ghizzoni, G. Tonini, F. Farinati, C. Betterle. Tryptophan hydroxylase autoantibodies as
markers of a distinct autoimmune gastrointestinal component of autoimmune polyendocrine
syndrome type 1. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2013;98:704-712.
Morelli V, Reimondo G, Giordano R, Della Casa S, Policola C, Palmieri S, Salcuni AS, Dolci
A, Mendola M, Arosio M, Ambrosi B, Scillitani A, Ghigo E, Beck-Peccoz P, Terzolo M,
Chiodini I. Long-term follow-up in adrenal incidentalomas: an italian multicenter study. J
Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2014;99(3):827-834.
Guaraldi F, Parasiliti-Caprino M, Goggi R, Beccuti G, Grottoli S, Arvat E, Ghizzoni L, Ghigo
E, Giordano R, Gori D. Identification of risk conditions for the development of adrenal
disorders: how optimized pubmed search strategies makes the difference. Endocrine. 2014
May 25. [Epub ahead of print]
Karamouzis I, Berardelli R, D'Angelo V, Fussotto B, Zichi C, Giordano R, Settanni F,
Maccario M, Ghigo E, Arvat E. Enhanced oxidative stress and platelet activation in patients
with Cushing's syndrome. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). 2014 Jun 12. [Epub ahead of print]
19
EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND CLINICAL PATHOLOGY
Prof. Giuseppina
BARRERA Associate Professor
Dr. Stefania
PIZZIMENTI Assistant Professor
Dr. Chiara
ULLIO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Eric
CIAMPORCERO PhD Student
Dr. Martina
DAGA PhD Student
Current Research Projects
Effect of GHS-responsive nanoparticles containing chemotherapeutic agents in chemo-
resistant tumor cells with diverse GSH level.
Effect of GSH-responsive nanoparticles in tumor cell line TUBO vs. derived cancer stem
cells-enriched mammospheres.
The role of Hippo signaling effector YAP in chemo- resistance of bladder cancer cells.
Detection of HNE-protein adduct in KRIT1−/− and KRIT1+/+ mouse embryonic fibroblast
(MEF) cell lines were established from KRIT1−/− and KRIT1+/+ E8.5 mouse embryos
20
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Eric ciamporcero, Kiersten Marie Miles, Remi Adelaiye, Swathi Ramakrishnan, Li Shen,
Shengyu Ku, Stefania Pizzimenti, Barbara Sennino, Giuseppina Barrera, and Roberto Pili;
Combination strategy targeting VEGF and HGF/c-met in human renal cell carcinoma models.
Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, 2014 in press.
Giuseppina Barrera, Stefania Pizzimenti, Eric Ciamporcero, Martina Daga, Chiara Ullio,
Alessia Arcaro, Gianpaolo Cetrangolo, Carlo Ferretti, Chiara Dianzani, Alessio Lepore, and
Fabrizio Gentile. Role of 4-hydroxynonenal-protein adducts in human diseases; Antioxidant
and Redox Signalling, 2014 in press.
Steimberg N., Mazzoleni G., Ciamporcero E., Ullio C., Daga M., Barrera G., Pizzimenti S. In
Vitro Modeling of Tissue-Specific 3D Microenvironments and Possibile Application to
Pediatric Cancer Research. J Pediatric Oncology 2014; 2(1): 40-76.
Dianzani C, Zara GP, Maina G, Pettazzoni P, Pizzimenti S, Rossi F, Gigliotti CL,
Ciamporcero ES, Daga M, Barrera G. Drug Delivery Nanoparticles in Skin Cancers. Biomed
Res Int. 2014; 2014:895986. Epub 2014 Jul 2. Review.
Pizzimenti S, Ciamporcero E, Pettazzoni P, Osella-Abate S, Novelli M, Toaldo C, Husse M,
Daga M, Minelli R, Bisazza A, Ferruti P, Ranucci E, Grazia Bernengo M, Dianzani C, Biasi
F, Cavalli R, Barrera G. The inclusion complex of 4 hydroxynonenal with a polymeric
derivative of β-cyclodextrin enhances the antitumoral efficacy of the aldehyde in several
tumor cell lines and in a three-dimensional human melanoma model. Free Radic Biol Med.
2013 Dec;65:765-77.
Pizzimenti S, Ciamporcero E, Daga M, Pettazzoni P, Arcaro A, Cetrangolo G, Minelli R,
Dianzani C, Lepore A, Gentile F, Barrera G. Interaction of aldehydes derived from lipid
peroxidation and membrane proteins. Front Physiol. 2013 Sep 4;4:242.
Minelli R, Occhipinti S, Gigliotti CL, Barrera G, Gasco P, Conti L, Chiocchetti A, Zara GP,
Fantozzi R, Giovarelli M, Dianzani U, Dianzani C. Solid lipid nanoparticles of cholesteryl
butyrate inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo models. Br J Pharmacol.
2013 Sep;170(2):233-44.
21
FARMACOLOGY
Dr. Giovanni N.
BERTA Assistant Professor
Dr. Federica
DI SCIPIO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Zhiqian
YANG PhD Student
Dr. Maria E.
CARERE PhD Student
Current Research Projects
•Identification and preclinical validation of novel therapeutic strategies (DNA vaccination included)
efficacious against poor prognosis tumour histotypes (carcinomas).
•Identification and validation of novel nano-molecular vectors for drugs and/or molecules
characterized by unfavorable pharmacokinetics.
•Isolation and characterization of mesenchymal stem cells from tissues of adult mammalians and
their preclinical employment in three-dimensional models.
22
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Rizzotto G, Crosetti E, Lucioni M, Bertolin A, Monticone V, Sprio AE, Berta GN, Succo G.
“Oncologic outcomes of supratracheal laryngectomy: Critical analysis.” Head Neck. 2014
May 16.
Di Scipio F, Sprio AE, Folino A, Carere ME, Salamone P, Yang Z, Berrone M, Prat M,
Losano G, Rastaldo R, Berta GN. “Injured cardiomyocytes promote dental pulp mesenchymal
stem cell homing.” Biochim Biophys Acta. 2014 Jul;1840(7):2152-61.
Cristallini C, Cibrario Rocchietti E, Accomasso L, Folino A, Gallina C, Muratori L, Pagliaro
P, Rastaldo R, Raimondo S, Saviozzi S, Sprio AE, Gagliardi M, Barbani N, Giachino C. “The
effect of bioartificial constructs that mimic myocardial structure and biomechanical properties
on stem cell commitment towards cardiac lineage.” Biomaterials. 2014 Jan;35(1):92-104.
Zamperone A, Pietronave S, Merlin S, Colangelo D, Ranaldo G, Medico E, Di Scipio F, Berta
GN, Follenzi A, Prat M. “Isolation and characterization of a spontaneously immortalized
multipotent mesenchymal cell line derived from mouse subcutaneous adipose tissue.” Stem
Cells Dev. 2013 Nov 1;22(21):2873-84.
Ronchi G, Gambarotta G, Di Scipio F, Salamone P, Sprio AE, Cavallo F, Perroteau I, Berta
GN, Geuna S. “ErbB2 receptor over-expression improves post-traumatic peripheral nerve
regeneration in adult mice.” PLoS One. 2013;8(2):e56282.
23
Research Team
www.unito.it/dscb
GENERAL PATHOLOGY – RICCARDO AUTELLI
Dr. Riccardo
AUTELLI Assistant Professor
Current Research Projects
Lysosomal mechanisms of death in cancer cells.
Hepatocarcinomas (HCC) and HCC-derived cells frequently show resistance to anticancer agents.
The rat hepatoma cells HTC are resistant to many inducers of apoptosis, but are effectively killed
by TNF/cycloheximide treatment. Death is mediated by the lysosomal compartment and relies on
TNF-induced, oxidative stress-mediated lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP). Upon
permeabilization, the lysosomal contents are allowed to relocate to the cytoplasm and trigger
necrotic or non-necrotic cell death.
The specific aims of this research are:
- to characterize the mechanisms underlying lysosomal death pathways in HCC and breast cancer
cells, in particular to investigate the contribution of pro- and antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins;
- to investigate whether some of the most widely used anticancer drugs (doxorubicin and others)
rely on LMP for their activity;
- to search for a correlation between development of drug resistance and suppression of LMP;
- to investigate the role of autophagy on increased resistance of tumor cell to anticancer drugs.
Interfering with sphingolipid metabolism to increase drug-induced LMP and death in cancer
cells
Sphingosine (Sph) is a sphingolipid generated by ceramide metabolism. We have shown that
sphingosine is a powerful inducer of LMP and mediates TNF-induced LMP and death in HCC cells.
Cancer cells keep as low as possible the intracellular level of Sph, in order to prevent spontaneous
or drug-induced LMP and death. In many cancers, this is granted by overexpression of sphingosine
kinase 1 (SK1) and, to a lesser extent, of SK2. Such kinases phosphorylate Sph to sphingosine 1
phosphate (S1P), thus converting a proapoptotic factor (Sph) into a molecule (S1P) that enhances
survival of SK-overexpressing cells.
Specific aims of the research are: 1) to investigate the molecular mechanisms of SK1 and 2
disregulation in HCC and breast cancer cell lines; 2) to down-regulate SKs in the above cancer cell
lines and to evaluate whether this affects both S1P/Sph ratio and drug-induced LMP and cell death.
24
Research products
www.unito.it/dscb
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Bocca C, Ievolella M, Autelli R, Motta M, Mosso L, Torchio B, Bozzo F, Cannito S,
Paternostro C, Colombatto S, Parola M, Miglietta A. Expression of Cox-2 in human breast
cancer cells as a critical determinant of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and invasiveness.
Expert Opin Ther Targets. 2014 18:121-35.
25
GENERAL PATHOLOGY - CANCER CACHEXIA
Prof. Gabriella
BONELLI Full professor
Prof. Paola
COSTELLI Associate Professor
Dr. Fabio
PENNA Assistant Professor
Dr. Daniela
De Stefanis Research Technician
Dr. Domiziana
COSTAMAGNA
Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Fabrizio
PIN PhD student
Dr Riccardo
BALLARO’ PhD student
Current Research Projects
Cancer cachexia and muscle wasting: alterations of protein metabolism and myogenic
potential;
Pharmacological, nutritional and training approaches to improve muscle wasting in
experimental cancer cachexia;
Stem cell therapy to restore cancer-induced impaired myogenesis.
26
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Penna F, Costamagna D, Pin F, Camperi A, Fanzani A, Chiarpotto EM, Cavallini G, Bonelli
G, Baccino FM, Costelli P. Autophagic degradation contributes to muscle wasting in cancer
cachexia. Am J Pathol. 2013 Apr;182(4):1367-78.
Merli M, Giusto M, Molfino A, Bonetto A, Rossi M, Ginanni Corradini S, Baccino FM, Rossi
Fanelli F, Costelli P, Muscaritoli M. MuRF-1 and p-GSK3β expression in muscle atrophy of
liver cirrhosis. Liver Int. 2013 May;33(5): 714-21.
Penna F, Bonelli G, Baccino FM, Costelli P. Mechanism-based therapeutic approach to
cachexia. Vitam Horm. 2013;92:271-99.
Bonetto A, Penna F, Aversa Z, Mercantini P, Baccino FM, Costelli P, Ziparo V, Lucia S,
Rossi Fanelli F, Muscaritoli M. Early changes of muscle IGF-1 and myostatin gene
expression in gastric cancer patients. Muscle Nerve. 2013 Sep;48(3):387-92.
Minero VG, Khadjavi A, Costelli P, Baccino FM, Bonelli G. JNK activation is required for
TNFα-induced apoptosis in human hepatocarcinoma cells. Int Immunopharmacol. 2013
Sep;17(1):92-8.
Penna F, Busquets S, Toledo M, Pin F, Massa D, Lopez-Soriano FJ, Costelli P, Argiles JM.
Erythropoietin administration partially prevents adipose tissue loss in experimental cancer
cachexia models. J Lipid Res. 2013 Nov;54(11):3045-51.
Fontes-Oliveira CC, Busquets S, Toledo M, Penna F, Paz Aylwin M, Sirisi S, Silva AP, Orpí
M, García A, Sette A, Inês Genovese M, Olivan M, López-Soriano FJ, Argilés JM.
Mitochondrial and sarcoplasmic reticulum abnormalities in cancer cachexia: altered energetic
efficiency? Biochim Biophys Acta. 2013 Mar;1830(3):2770-8.
Faggi F, Mitola S, Sorci G, Riuzzi F, Donato R, Codenotti S, Poliani PL, Cominelli M,
Vescovi R, Rossi S, Calza S, Colombi M, Penna F, Costelli P, Perini I, Sampaolesi M, Monti
E, Fanzani A. Phosphocaveolin-1 enforces tumor growth and chemoresistance in
rhabdomyosarcoma. PLoS One. 2014 Jan 10;9(1):e84618.
Penna F, Baccino FM, Costelli P. Coming back: autophagy in cachexia. Curr Opin Clin Nutr
Metab Care. 2014 May;17(3):241-6.
Gallo S, Gatti S, Sala V, Albano R, Costelli P, Casanova E, Comoglio P, Crepaldi T. Agonist
antibodies activating the Met receptor protect cardiomyoblasts from cobalt chloride-induced
apoptosis and autophagy. Cell Death Dis. 2014 Apr 17;5:e1185.
Penna F, Bonetto A, Baccino FM, Costelli P. Glutamine and myostatin expression in muscle.
In Glutamine in Health and Disease, ed. R. Rajendram, V.R. Preedy, and V.B. Patel. 2014
London: Springer Press, in press.
27
GENERAL PATHOLOGY
LABORATORY FOR THE STUDY OF NUTRITION AND METABOLIC
DISORDERS
Prof. Manuela
ARAGNO Associate Professor
Dr. Raffaella
MASTROCOLA Research Technician
Dr. Debora
NIGRO PhD Student
Current Research Projects
Investigation on the molecular pathways underlying the pathogenesis of diet-induced
metabolic disorders such as obesity, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance and diabetes, focusing mainly
on the role of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) on the dysregulation of the lipogenic
pathway.
We recently developed in vivo models of diet-induced metabolic disorders for studying molecular
alterations occurring in various organs and tissue (including liver, kidney, heart, and skeletal
muscle).
We currently are the leading group of the following ongoing research projects:
- Role of the AGEs in the myosteatosis and muscle dysfunction in a high-fructose diet and
modulation by the anti-glycative compound pyridoxamine (in collaboration with Medana, Collino,
Minetto, D’Antona);
- Effects of a high-fat high-fructose diet in the impairment of recovery mechanisms and
activation of the inflammasome complex in the ischemic heart and prevention by a new anti-NFkB
activation compound (in collaboration with Pagliaro and Collino);
- Characterization of the lipid profile modifications in liver and plasma samples of high-fat or
high-fructose fed mice by different methods in GC-MS (in collaboration with Medana)
and we actively cooperate to the following studies:
- Efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in the prevention of obesity and insulin resistance in
high-fat high-sucrose diet fed mice (in collaboration with Collino, Minetto, D’Antona);
- Effects of the administration of innovative anti-inflammatory compounds in the diet-induced
insulin resistance (in collaboration with Collino and Thiemermann);
- Role of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in the development of diet-induced metabolic
derangements (in collaboration with Collino and Ryffel).
28
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Medana C, Calza P, Giancotti V, Dal Bello F, Aragno M, Baiocchi C. Study of the
photocatalytic transformation of synephrine: a biogenic amine relevant in anti-doping
analysis. Anal Bioanal Chem. 2013 Jan;405(2-3):1105-13.
Collino M, Benetti E, Rogazzo M, Mastrocola R, Yaqoob MM, Aragno M, Thiemermann C,
Fantozzi R. Reversal of the deleterious effects of chronic dietary HFCS-55 intake by PPAR-δ
agonism correlates with impaired NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Biochem Pharmacol,
85(2):257-64, 2013.
Sansoè G, Aragno M, Mastrocola R, Paternostro C, Parola M. Calcium receptors located in
fibrotic septa: a new target to reduce portal pressure in liver cirrhosis. Clinical Science
125(2):67-75, 2013.
Mastrocola R, Collino M, Rogazzo M, Medana C, Nigro D, Boccuzzi G, Aragno M.
Advanced glycation end-products promote hepatosteatosis by interfering with SCAP-SREBP
system in fructose drinking mice. Am J Physiol – Gastrointestinal and Liver, 305(6):G398-
407, 2013
Benetti E, Mastrocola R, Rogazzo M, Chiazza F, Aragno M, Fantozzi R, Collino M and
Minetto MA. High Sugar Intake and Development of Skeletal Muscle Insulin Resistance and
Inflammation in Mice: A Protective Role for PPAR-𝛿 Agonism. Mediators of Inflammation,
2013:509502.
Collino M, Mastrocola R, Nigro D, Chiazza F, Aragno M, D'Antona G and Minetto MA.
Variability in myosteatosis and insulin resistance induced by high fat diet in mouse skeletal
muscles. Special issue "Nutrients and Muscle Disease”, BioMed Research International,
2014:56923.
Collino M, Benetti E, Rogazzo M, Chiazza F, Mastrocola R, Nigro D, Cutrin JC, Aragno M,
Fantozzi R, Minetto M, Thiemermann C. A nonerythropoietic peptide derivative of
erythropoietin decreases susceptibility to diet-induced insulin resistance in mice. Br J
Pharmacol 2014. In press
De Stefanis D, Mastrocola R, Nigro D, Costelli P, Aragno M. Effect of chronic sugar-diet on
mice skeletal muscle: a comparison between fructose and glucose. J Nutr 2014. Submitted.
Mastrocola R, Collino M, Nigro D, Chiazza F, D’Antona G, Aragno M, Minetto MA.
Advanced glycation end-products promote myosteatosis by activation of the SCAP/SREBP
lipogenetic pathway in mouse skeletal muscle. PlosOne 2014. Submitted
29
GENERAL PATHOLOGY AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
Prof. Giuseppe
POLI Full Professor
Prof. Elena
CHIARPOTTO Associate Professor
Prof. Fiorella
BIASI Associate Professor
Prof. Gabriella
LEONARDUZZI Associate Professor
Dr. Paola
GAMBA Assistant Professor
Dr. Simona
GARGIULO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Gabriella
TESTA Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Marco
MAINA Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Tina
GUINA PhD Student
Dr. Simone
CALFAPIETRA PhD Student
Dr. Daniela
ROSSIN PhD Student
Dr. Barbara
SOTTERO Research Technician
Current Research Projects
Oxysterols, a family of 27-carbon molecules originated from cholesterol oxidation by both
enzymatic and non-enzymatic mechanisms, are comprehensively investigated for their potential
contribution to the pathogenesis and the progression of those human diseases that recognize
hypercholesterolemia as primary risk factor and are associated with inflammation. Among these
pathologies, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease and colon
carcinogenesis are considered.
Very recently, much attention has also been drawn on the beneficial properties of oxysterols.
A few relevant examples are the ability of defined oxysterols to modulate physiologically
important nuclear receptors, induce survival signaling within cells and protect them against
infection by a broad variety of enveloped and non enveloped viruses.
30
Recent Publications (2013/2014) Vurusaner B, Gamba P, Testa G, Gargiulo S, Biasi F, Zerbinati C, Iuliano L, Leonarduzzi G,
Basaga H, Poli G. Survival signaling elicited by 27-hydroxycholesterol through the combined
modulation of cellular redox state and ERK/Akt phosphorylation. Free Radic. Biol. Med.
2014 Aug 7. [Epub ahead of print].
Biasi F, Deiana M, Guina T, Gamba P, Leonarduzzi G, Poli G. Wine consumption and
intestinal redox homeostasis. Redox Biol. 2014;2:795-802.
Poli G, Chiarpotto E. Editorial: lifestyle and therapeutics in the elderly. Curr. Pharm. Des.
2014;20:2949.
Testa G, Gamba P, Badilli U, Gargiulo S, Maina M, Guina T, Calfapietra S, Biasi F, Cavalli
R, Poli G, Leonarduzzi G. Loading into nanoparticles improves quercetin's efficacy in
preventing neuroinflammation induced by oxysterols. PLoS One 2014;9(5):e96795.
Poli G. A new biochemical effect of 4-hydroxynonenal: downregulation of TGFβ-dependent
elastogenesis. Free Radic. Biol. Med. 2014;71:437-438.
Gamba P, Guglielmotto M, Testa G, Monteleone D, Zerbinati C, Gargiulo S, Biasi F, Iuliano
L, Giaccone G, Mauro A, Poli G, Tamagno E, Leonarduzzi G. Up-regulation of β-
amyloidogenesis in neuron-like human cells by both 24- and 27-hydroxycholesterol:
protective effect of N-acetyl-cysteine. Aging Cell 2014;13:561-572.
Vizio B, Biasi F, Scirelli T, Novarino A, Prati A, Ciuffreda L, Montrucchio G, Poli G,
Bellone G. Pancreatic-carcinoma-cell-derived pro-angiogenic factors can induce endothelial-
cell differentiation of a subset of circulating CD34+ progenitors. J. Transl. Med. 2013;11:314.
Goitre L, De Luca E, Braggion S, Trapani E, Guglielmotto M, Biasi F, Forni M, Moglia A,
Trabalzini L, Retta SF. KRIT1 loss of function causes a ROS-dependent upregulation of c-
Jun. Free Radic. Biol. Med. 2014;68:134-147.
Testa G, Biasi F, Poli G, Chiarpotto E. Calorie restriction and dietary restriction mimetics: a
strategy for improving healthy aging and longevity. Curr. Pharm. Des. 2014;20:2950-2977.
Gargiulo S, Gamba P, Poli G, Leonarduzzi G. Metalloproteinases and metalloproteinase
inhibitors in age-related diseases. Curr. Pharm. Des. 2014;20:2993-3018.
Poli G, Biasi F, Leonarduzzi G. Oxysterols in the pathogenesis of major chronic diseases.
Redox Biol. 2013;1:125-130.
Biasi F, Guina T, Maina M, Cabboi B, Deiana M, Tuberoso CI, Calfapietra S, Chiarpotto E,
Sottero B, Gamba P, Gargiulo S, Brunetto V, Testa G, Dessì MA, Poli G, Leonarduzzi G.
Phenolic compounds present in Sardinian wine extracts protect against the production of
inflammatory cytokines induced by oxysterols in CaCo-2 human enterocyte-like cells.
Biochem. Pharmacol. 2013;86:138-145.
Biasi F, Leonarduzzi G, Oteiza PI, Poli G. Inflammatory bowel disease: mechanisms, redox
considerations, and therapeutic targets. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 2013;19:1711-1747.
Biasi F, Chiarpotto E, Sottero B, Maina M, Mascia C, Guina T, Gamba P, Gargiulo S, Testa
G, Leonarduzzi G, Poli G. Evidence of cell damage induced by major components of a diet-
31
compatible mixture of oxysterols in human colon cancer CaCo-2 cell line. Biochimie
2013;95:632-640.
Pizzimenti S, Ciamporcero E, Pettazzoni P, Osella-Abate S, Novelli M, Toaldo C, Husse M,
Daga M, Minelli R, Bisazza A, Ferruti P, Ranucci E, Grazia Bernengo M, Dianzani C, Biasi
F, Cavalli R, Barrera G. The inclusion complex of 4-hydroxynonenal with a polymeric
derivative of β-cyclodextrin enhances the antitumoral efficacy of the aldehyde in several
tumor cell lines and in a three-dimensional human melanoma model. Free Radic. Biol. Med.
2013;65:765-777.
Penna F, Costamagna D, Pin F, Camperi A, Fanzani A, Chiarpotto EM, Cavallini G, Bonelli
G, Baccino FM, Costelli P. Autophagic degradation contributes to muscle wasting in cancer
cachexia. Am. J. Pathol. 2013;182:1367-1378.
Lezo A, Biasi F, Massarenti P, Calabrese R, Poli G, Santini B, Bignamini E. Oxidative stress
in stable cystic fibrosis patients: do we need higher antioxidant plasma levels? J. Cyst.
Fibrosis 2013;12:35-41.
32
HEMATOLOGY AND STEM CELL TRANSPLANTATION LABORATORY
Prof. Daniela
CILLONI Associate Professor
Dr. Valentina
ROSSO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Sonia
CARTURAN Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Jessica
PETITI PhD Student
Dr. Elisabetta
SIGNORINO PhD Student
Current Research Projects
Molecular characterization of myeloproliferative disorders and myelodysplastic syndromes
including the development of drosophila model for the genetic characterization of oncogenic
pathways.
Study of stemness properties and aging of cord blood and adult stem cells before and after
transplantation
Clonal evolution and markers of Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
33
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Efficace F, Santini V, La Nasa G, Cottone F, Finelli C, Borin L, Quaresmini G, Di Tucci AA,
Volpe A, Cilloni D, Quarta G, Sanpaolo G, Rivellini F, Salvi F, Molteni A, Voso MT,
Alimena G, Fenu S, Mandelli F, Angelucci E. Health-relatedquality of life in transfusion-
dependent patients with myelodysplastic syndromes:a prospective study to assess the impact
of iron chelation therapy. BMJ Support Palliat Care. 2014 Sep 9 2014
Aslanyan MG, Kroeze LI, Langemeijer SM, Koorenhof-Scheele TN, Massop M, vanHoogen
P, Stevens-Linders E, van de Locht LT, Tönnissen E, van der Heijden A, da Silva-Coelho P,
Cilloni D, Saglio G, Marie JP, Tang R, Labar B, Amadori S, MuusP, Willemze R, Marijt EW,
de Witte T, van der Reijden BA, Suciu S, Jansen JH.Clinical and biological impact of TET2
mutations and expression in younger adult AML patients treated within the
EORTC/GIMEMA AML-12 clinical trial. Ann Hematol. 2014 Aug;93(8):1401-12
Angelucci E, Santini V, Di Tucci AA, Quaresmini G, Finelli C, Volpe A, Quarta G, Rivellini
F, Sanpaolo G, Cilloni D, Salvi F, Caocci G, Molteni A, Vallisa D, Voso MT, Fenu S, Borin
L, Latte G, Alimena G, Storti S, Piciocchi A, Fazi P, Vignetti M, Tura S. Deferasirox for
transfusion-dependent patients with myelodysplastic syndromes: safety, efficacy, and beyond
(GIMEMA MDS0306 Trial). Eur J Haematol. 2014 Jun;92(6):527-36
Willemze R, Suciu S, Meloni G, Labar B, Marie JP, Halkes CJ, Muus P, Mistrik M, Amadori
S, Specchia G, Fabbiano F, Nobile F, Sborgia M, Camera A, Selleslag DL, Lefrère F Sr,
Magro D, Sica S, Cantore N, Beksac M, Berneman Z, Thomas X, Melillo L, Guimaraes JE,
Leoni P, Luppi M, Mitra ME, Bron D, Fillet G, Marijt EW, Venditti A, Hagemeijer A,
Mancini M, Jansen J, Cilloni D, Meert L, Fazi P, Vignetti M, Trisolini SM, Mandelli F, de
Witte T. High-dose cytarabine in induction treatment improves the outcome of adult patients
younger than age 46 years with acute myeloid leukemia: results of the EORTC-GIMEMA
AML-12 trial. J Clin Oncol. 2014 Jan 20;32(3):219-28.
Frassoni F, Cilloni D, Podestà M. New possibilities to exploit the potentiality of cord blood
cells in the context of transplantation. Immunol Lett. 2013 Sep-Oct;155(1-2):24-6.
Bracco E, Rosso V, Serra A, Carnuccio F, Gaidano V, Nicoli P, Musto P, Saglio G, Frassoni
F, Cilloni D. Design and application of a novel PNA probe for thedetection at single cell level
of JAK2V617F mutation in MyeloproliferativeNeoplasms. BMC Cancer. 2013 Jul 18;13:348.
Finazzi G, Vannucchi AM, Martinelli V, Ruggeri M, Nobile F, Specchia G, Pogliani EM,
Olimpieri OM, Fioritoni G, Musolino C, Cilloni D, Sivera P, BarosiG, Finazzi MC, Di Tollo
S, Demuth T, Barbui T, Rambaldi A. A phase II study of Givinostat in combination with
hydroxycarbamide in patients with polycythaemiavera unresponsive to hydroxycarbamide
monotherapy. Br J Haematol. 2013Jun;161(5):688-94
Cilloni D, Carturan S, Bracco E, Campia V, Rosso V, Torti D, Calabrese C, Gaidano V,
Niparuck P, Favole A, Signorino E, Iacobucci I, Morano A, De Luca L,Musto P, Frassoni F,
Saglio G. Aberrant activation of ROS1 represents a newmolecular defect in chronic
myelomonocytic leukemia. Leuk Res. 2013May;37(5):520-30.
Marchioli R, Finazzi G, Specchia G, Cacciola R, Cavazzina R, Cilloni D, De Stefano V, Elli
E, Iurlo A, Latagliata R, Lunghi F, Lunghi M, Marfisi RM, Musto P, Masciulli A, Musolino
C, Cascavilla N, Quarta G, Randi ML, Rapezzi D, Ruggeri M, Rumi E, Scortechini AR,
34
Santini S, Scarano M, Siragusa S, Spadea A, Tieghi A, Angelucci E, Visani G, Vannucchi
AM, Barbui T; CYTO-PV Collaborative Group.Cardiovascular events and intensity of
treatment in polycythemia vera. N Engl JMed. 2013 Jan 3;368(1):22-33.
Angelini S, Soverini S, Ravegnini G, Barnett M, Turrini E, Thornquist M, PaneF, Hughes TP,
White DL, Radich J, Kim DW, Saglio G, Cilloni D, Iacobucci I,Perini G, Woodman R,
Cantelli-Forti G, Baccarani M, Hrelia P, Martinelli G.Association between imatinib
transporters and metabolizing enzymes genotype andresponse in newly diagnosed chronic
myeloid leukemia patients receiving imatinib therapy. Haematologica. 2013 Feb;98(2):193-
200.
35
HUMAN ANATOMY
Prof. Maria G.
ROBECCHI Full Professor
Prof. Stefano
GEUNA Associate Professor
Dr. Stefania
RAIMONDO Assistant Professor
Dr. Federica
FREGNAN Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Sara
GNAVI Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Luisa
MURATORI
PhD Student
Dr. Davide
PASCAL PhD Student
Dr. Michela
MORANO PhD Student
Current Research Projects
The current research projects are focused in five main directions:
to investigate, by means of an interdisciplinary approach, innovative strategies for the tissue
engineering of the damaged peripheral nerves;
to investigate the neuronal adaptive changes occurring after peripheral nerve trauma and/or
disease;
to investigate innovative strategies to prevent skeletal muscle atrophy after peripheral nerve
damage;
to investigate the neuroendocrine mechanisms involved in peripheral nerve regeneration;
to develop new behavioral and stereological protocols for reliable quantitative assessment of the
PNS.
36
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Novajra G, Tonda-Turo C, Vitale-Brovarone C, Ciardelli G, Geuna S, Raimondo S. “Novel
systems for tailored neurotrophic factor release based on hydrogel and resorbable glass
hollow fibers.” Mater Sci Eng C Mater Biol Appl. 36:25-32 (2014).
Buskbjerg Jager S, Ronchi G, Bjerggaard Vaegter C, Geuna S. “The mouse median nerve
experimental model in regenerative research.” Biomed Res Int. 2014:701682 (2014).
Beck-Broichsitter BE, Lamia A, Geuna S, Fregnan F, Smeets R, Becker ST, Sinis N. “Does
pulsed magnetic field therapy influence nerve regeneration in the median nerve model of the
rat?” Biomed Res Int. 2014:401760 (2014).
Ziv-Polat O, Shahar A, Levy I, Skaat H, Neuman S, Fregnan F, Geuna S, Grothe C, Haastert-
Talini K, Margel S. “The role of neurotrophic factors conjugated to iron oxide nanoparticles
in peripheral nerve regeneration: in vitro studies.” Biomed Res Int. 2014:267808 (2014).
Riccio M, Pangrazi PP, Parodi PC, Vaienti L, Marchesini A, Neuendorf AD, Bottegoni C,
Tos P, Geuna S. “The amnion muscle combined graft (AMCG) conduits: A new alternative in
the repair of wide substance loss of peripheral nerves”. Microsurgery. (2014).
Dimauro I, Grasso L, Fittipaldi S, Fantini C, Mercatelli N, Racca S, Geuna S, Di
Gianfrancesco A, Caporossi D, Pigozzi F, Borrione P. “Platelet-rich plasma and skeletal
muscle healing: a molecular analysis of the early phases of the regeneration process in an
experimental animal model.” PLoS One. 9(7):e102993 (2014).
Crosio A, Valdatta L, Cherubino M, Izzo M, Pellegatta I, Pascal D, Geuna S, Tos P. “A
simple and reliable method to perform biomechanical evaluation of postoperative nerve
adhesions.” J Neurosci Methods. 233:73-7 (2014).
Papalia I, Raimondo S, Ronchi G, Magaudda L, Giacobini-Robecchi MG, Geuna S.
“Repairing nerve gaps by vein conduits filled with lipoaspirate-derived entire adipose tissue
hinders nerve regeneration.” Ann Anat. 195(3):225-30 (2013)
Geuna S, Gnavi S, Perroteau I, Tos P, Battiston B. Tissue engineering and peripheral nerve
reconstruction: an overview.
Int Rev Neurobiol 108:35-57 (2013).
Haastert-Talini K, Geuna S, Dahlin LB, Meyer C, Stenberg L, Freier T, Heimann C, Barwig
C, Pinto LF, Raimondo S, Gambarotta G, Samy SR, Sousa N, Salgado AJ, Ratzka A, Wrobel
S, Grothe C. Chitosan tubes of varying degrees of acetylation for bridging peripheral nerve
defects. Biomaterials 34:9886-904 (2013).
Moimas S, Novati F, Ronchi G, Zacchigna S, Fregnan F, Zentilin L, Papa G, Giacca M,
Geuna S, Perroteau I, Arnež ZM, Raimondo S. Effect of vascular endothelial growth factor
gene therapy on post-traumatic peripheral nerve regeneration and denervation-related muscle
atrophy. Gene Ther 20:1014-21 (2013).
37
Ronchi G, Gambarotta G, Di Scipio F, Salamone P, Sprio AE, Cavallo F, Perroteau I, Berta
GN, Geuna S. ErbB2 receptor over-expression improves post-traumatic peripheral nerve
regeneration in adult mice. PLoS One 8(2):e56282 (2013).
Costa LM, Pereira JE, Filipe VM, Magalhães LG, Couto PA, Gonzalo-Orden JM, Raimondo
S, Geuna S, Maurício AC, Nikulina E, Filbin MT, Varejão AS. Rolipram promotes functional
recovery after contusive thoracic spinal cord injury in rats. Behav Brain Res 243:66-73
(2013).
Papalia I, Raimondo S, Ronchi G, Magaudda L, Giacobini-Robecchi MG, Geuna S. Repairing
nerve gaps by vein conduits filled with lipoaspirate-derived entire adipose tissue hinders
nerve regeneration. Ann Anat 195:225-30 (2013).
Porporato PE, Filigheddu N, Reano S, Ferrara M, Angelino E, Gnocchi VF, Prodam F,
Ronchi G, Fagoonee S, Fornaro M, Chianale F, Baldanzi G, Surico N, Sinigaglia F, Perroteau
I, Smith RG, Sun Y, Geuna S, Graziani A. Acylated and unacylated ghrelin impair skeletal
muscle atrophy in mice. J Clin Invest 123:611-22 (2013).
38
HUMAN AND INDUSTRIAL TOXICOLOGY
Dr. Giovanni
MAINA
Assistant Professor
Dr. Andrea Elio
SPRIO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Lisa
ACCOMASSO
Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Current Research Projects
The current research projects are focused in two main directions:
to prepare, and to evaluate formulations of drug incorporated in new types of nano-vehicles
(cyclodextrin-based nanosponges and micro and nanobubbles).
to develop technical textile materials with innovative and highly durable antibacterial activities for
civil and aerospace applications.
39
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Miola M, Bruno M, Maina G, Fucale G, Lucchetta G, Vernè E. “Antibiotic-free composite bone
cements with antibacterial and bioactive properties. A preliminary study.” Mater Sci Eng C
Mater Biol Appl. 43:65-75. (2014)
Miola M, Brovarone CV, Maina G, Rossi F, Bergandi L, Ghigo D, Saracino S, Maggiora M,
Canuto RA, Muzio G, Vernè E. “In vitro study of manganese-doped bioactive glasses for bone
regeneration.” Mater Sci Eng C Mater Biol Appl. 38:107-18. (2014)
Bianco C, Adami G, Crosera M, Larese F, Casarin S, Castagnoli C, Stella M, Maina G. “Silver
percutaneous absorption after exposure to silver nanoparticles: A comparison study of three
human skin graft samples used for clinical applications.” Burns. 40(7):1390-6. (2014)
Dianzani C, Zara GP, Maina G, Pettazzoni P, Pizzimenti S, Rossi F, Gigliotti CL, Ciamporcero
ES, Daga M, Barrera G. “Drug delivery nanoparticles in skin cancers.” Biomed Res Int.
2014:895986. (2014)
Larese Filon F, Crosera M, Timeus E, Adami G, Bovenzi M, Ponti J, Maina G. “Human skin
penetration of cobalt nanoparticles through intact and damaged skin.” Toxicol In Vitro.
27(1):121-7. (2013)
40
MEDICAL GENETICS
HUMAN GENETICS GROUP
Prof. Claudia
GIACHINO Associate Professor
Dr. Silvia
SAVIOZZI Research Technician
Dr. Valentina
TURINETTO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Clara
GALLINA PhD Student
Dr Tania
CAPELÔA PhD Student
Current Research Projects
Our current research projects are focused on four main areas:
Genetic and epigenetic stability of stem cells;
Medical devices for innovative therapies (In vivo tissue engineering for myocardium
regeneration);
Bio-nano-technologies for regenerative medicine (biocompatibility and biosafety of micro
and nanoparticles, stem cell imaging).
DNA repair capacity and cancer risk.
41
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Minieri V, Saviozzi S, Gambarotta G, Lo Iacono M, Accomasso L, Cibrario Rocchietti E,
Gallina C, Turinetto V, Giachino C. Persistent DNA damage-induced premature senescence
alters the functional features of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. J Cell Mol
Med. 2014, in press.
Pardini B, Allione A, Guarrera S, Turinetto V, Fiorito G, Rosa F, Russo A, Modica F,
Giachino C, Vineis P, Sacerdote C, Matullo G. DNA repair capacity, gene expression and
epigenomic profiles in bladder cancer. Cancer Res. 2014 Oct; 74 (19 Suppl):5367.
Lo Iacono M, Monica V, Vavalà T, Gisabella M, Saviozzi S, Bracco E, Novello S, Papotti M,
Vittorio Scagliotti G. ATF2 contributes to cisplatin resistance in Non-Small cell lung cancer
and Celastrol induces cisplatin re-sensitization through inhibition of JNK/ATF2 pathway. Int
J Cancer. 2014 Oct 30.
Cristallini C, Cibrario Rocchietti E, Accomasso L, Folino A, Gallina C, Muratori L, Pagliaro
P, Rastaldo R, Raimondo S, Saviozzi S, Sprio AE, Gagliardi M, Barbani N, Giachino C. The
effect of bioartificial constructs that mimic myocardial structure and biomechanical properties
on stem cell commitment towards cardiac lineage. Biomaterials. 2014 Jan;35(1):92-104.
Cristallini C, Cibrario Rocchietti E, Accomasso L, Folino A, Gallina C, Muratori L, Pagliaro
P, Rastaldo R, Raimondo S, Saviozzi S, Sprio A, Barbani N, Giachino C. The guidance of
stem cell cardiomyogenic differentiation by bioartificial scaffolds mimicking myocardium
structure and biomechanics. EPMA Journal 2014, 5(Suppl 1):A81.
Fornero S, Bassino E, Ramella R, Gallina C, Mahata SK, Tota B, Levi R, Alloatti G, Gallo
MP. Obligatory role for endothelial heparan sulphate proteoglycans and caveolae
internalization in catestatin-dependent eNOS activation. Biomed Res Int. 2014; 2014:783623.
Capelôa T, Caramelo F, Fontes-Ribeiro C, Gomes C, Silva AP. Role of methamphetamine on
glioblastoma cytotoxicity induced by doxorubicin and methotrexate. Neurotox Res. 2014
Oct;26(3):216-27.
Allione A, Porcedda P, Russo A, Ricceri F, Simonelli V, Minoprio A, Guarrera S, Pardini B,
Mazzei F, Dogliotti E, Giachino C, Matullo G. Effect of blood storage conditions on DNA
repair capacity measurements in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Mutat Res. 2013
Sep;749(1-2):73-9.
Giachino C, Orlando L, Turinetto V. Maintenance of genomic stability in mouse embryonic
stem cells: relevance in aging and disease. Int J Mol Sci. 2013 Jan 28;14(2):2617-36.
42
Research Team
www.unito.it/dscb
HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY
(CARDIOVASCULAR PHYSIOLOGY)
Prof. Pasquale
PAGLIARO Associate Professor
Dr. Caludia
PENNA Assistant Professor
Dr. Daniele
MANCARDI Assistant Professor
Dr. Raffaella
RASTALDO Assistant Professor
Dr. Maria Giulia
PERRELLI Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Francesca
TULLIO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Anna
FOLINO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Carmelina
ANGOTTI PhD Student
Dr. Saveria
FEMMINÒ PhD Student
Current Research Projects
The current research projects are focused on three main areas:
Cardio-protection and cardio-regeneration: to study novel cardioprotective strategies
elicited by peptides (chromogranine and derivates, apelin, bradykinin) and to study the
importance of microstructure for stem cell orientation and differentiation of functionalized
cardioregenerative and cardioprotective biomaterials;
Stem cells and regenerative medicine: pluripotent cardiac stem cell, adult mesenchymal
stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cell cultures;
Molecular and Cellular Biology: mitochondrial redox signaling and stress, cardioprotective
signaling pathways; gas transmitters and calcium signaling.
By coupling the use of relevant experimental models (with comorbidities and with concomitant best
therapies) to further knowledge of endogenous cardioprotective pathways, we hope to identify
appropriate candidates (cells, substances and/or biomaterials) for each cardioprotective-
cardioregenerative strategy to be tested in future clinical trials and one day defeat ischemic disease.
43
Research products
www.unito.it/dscb
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Altaany Z, Moccia F, Munaron L, Mancardi D, Wang R. Hydrogen Sulfide and Endothelial
Dysfunction: Relationship with Nitric Oxide. Curr Med Chem. 2014 Jul 6. [Epub ahead of
print] PubMed PMID: 25005182.
Avanzato D, Merlino A, Porrera S, Wang R, Munaron L, Mancardi D. Role of calcium
channels in the protective effect of hydrogen sulfide in rat cardiomyoblasts. Cell Physiol
Biochem. 2014;33(4):1205-14.).
Cristallini C, Cibrario Rocchietti E, Accomasso L, Folino A, Gallina C, Muratori L, Pagliaro
P, Rastaldo R, Raimondo S, Saviozzi S, Sprio AE, Gagliardi M, Barbani N, Giachino C. The
effect of bioartificial constructs that mimic myocardial structure and biomechanical properties
on stem cell commitment towards cardiac lineage. Biomaterials. 2014 Jan;35(1):92-104.
Di Scipio F, Sprio AE, Folino A, Carere ME, Salamone P, Yang Z, Berrone M, Prat M,
Losano G, Rastaldo R, Berta GN. Injured cardiomyocytes promote dental pulp mesenchymal
stem cell homing. Biochim Biophys Acta. 2014 Jul;1840(7):2152-61.
Folino A, Losano G, Rastaldo R. Balance of nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species in
myocardial reperfusion injury and protection. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 2013 Dec;62(6):567-
75.
Mognetti B, La Montagna G, Perrelli MG, Pagliaro P, Penna C. Bone marrow mesenchymal
stem cells increase motility of prostate cancer cells via production of stromal cell-derived
factor-1α. J Cell Mol Med. 2013 Feb;17(2):287-92.
Munaron L, Avanzato D, Moccia F, Mancardi D. Hydrogen sulfide as a regulator of calcium
channels. Cell Calcium. 2013 Feb;53(2):77-84.
Pagliaro P, Gattullo D, Penna C. Nitroglycerine and sodium trioxodinitrate: from the
discovery to the preconditioning effect. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown). 2013
Oct;14(10):698-704.
Pagliaro P, Penna C. Redox signaling and cardioprotection – translatability and mechanism.
Br J Pharmacol. 2014 Oct 10.
Penna C, Angotti C, Pagliaro P. Protein S-nitrosylation in preconditioning and
postconditioning. Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2014 Mar 25;239(6):647-662.
Penna C, Brancaccio M, Tullio F, Rubinetto C, Perrelli MG, Angotti C, Pagliaro P, Tarone G.
Overexpression of the muscle-specific protein, melusin, protects from cardiac
ischemia/reperfusion injury. Basic Res Cardiol. 2014 Jul;109(4):418.
Penna C, Pasqua T, Amelio D, Perrelli MG, Angotti C, Tullio F, Mahata SK, Tota B, Pagliaro
P, Cerra MC, Angelone T. Catestatin increases the expression of anti-apoptotic and pro-
angiogenetic factors in the post-ischemic hypertrophied heart of SHR. PLoS One. 2014 Aug
6;9(8):e102536. eCollection 2014.
Penna C, Perrelli MG, Karam JP, Angotti C, Muscari C, Montero-Menei CN, Pagliaro P.
Pharmacologically active microcarriers influence VEGF-A effects on mesenchymal stem cell
survival. J Cell Mol Med. 2013 Jan;17(1):192-204.
44
Research Team
www.unito.it/dscb
Penna C, Perrelli MG, Pagliaro P. Mitochondrial pathways, permeabilità transition pore, and
redox signaling in cardioprotection: therapeutic implications. Antioxid Redox Signal. 2013
Feb 10;18(5):556-99.
Penna C, Perrelli MG, Tullio F, Angotti C, Camporeale A, Poli V, Pagliaro P. Diazoxide
postconditioning induces mitochondrial protein S-nitrosylation and a redox-sensitive
mitochondrial phosphorylation/translocation of RISK elements: no role for SAFE. Basic Res
Cardiol. 2013 Sep;108(5):371.
Penna C, Perrelli MG, Tullio F, Angotti C, Pagliaro P. Acidic infusion in early reperfusion
affects the activity of antioxidant enzymes in postischemic isolated rat heart. J Surg Res. 2013
Jul;183(1):111-8.
Penna C, Settanni F, Tullio F, Trovato L, Pagliaro P, Alloatti G, Ghigo E, Granata R. GH-
releasing hormone induces cardioprotection in isolated male rat heart via activation of RISK
and SAFE pathways. Endocrinology. 2013 Apr;154(4):1624-35.
Perrelli MG, Tullio F, Angotti C, Cerra MC, Angelone T, Tota B, Alloatti G, Penna C,
Pagliaro P. Catestatin reduces myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury: involvement of
PI3K/Akt, PKCs, mitochondrial KATP channels and ROS signalling. Pflugers Arch. 2013
Jul;465(7):1031-40.
Tullio F, Angotti C, Perrelli MG, Penna C, Pagliaro P. Redox balance and cardioprotection.
Basic Res Cardiol. 2013 Nov;108(6):392.
45
INTERNAL MEDICINE 3 - METABOLIC DISEASE UNIT
Prof. Angelo
GUERRASIO Associate Professor
Dr. Franco
CAVALOT Medical Doctor
Dr. Isabella
RUSSO Research Technician
Mr. Luigi
MATTIELLO Research Technician
Dr. Cristina
BARALE PhD Student
Current Research Projects
Glucagon-like peptide -1 effects on platelet function in health, obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Extracellular depletion and overload of iron on platelet responses in in vitro and in vivo models
46
Recent Publications (2013/2014) Russo I, Viretto M, Doronzo G, Barale C, Mattiello L, Anfossi G, Trovati M. A short-term
incubation with high glucose impairs VASP phosphorylation at serine 239 in response to the
nitric oxide/cGMP pathway in vascular smooth muscle cells: role of oxidative stress. Biomed
Res Int. 2014;2014:328959.
Galluccio E, Cassina L, Russo I, Gelmini F, Setola E, Rampoldi L, Citterio L, Rossodivita A,
Kamami M, Colombo A, Alfieri O, Carini M, Bosi E, Trovati M, Piatti P, Monti LD, Casari
G. A novel truncated form of eNOS associates with altered vascular function. Cardiovasc
Res. 2014 Mar 1;101(3):492-502.
Trovati M, Doronzo G, Barale C, Vaccheris C, Russo I, Cavalot F. Leptin and vascular
smooth muscle cells. Curr Pharm Des. 2014;20(4):625-34.
Doronzo G, Viretto M, Barale C, Russo I, Mattiello L, Anfossi G, Trovati M. Oleic acid
increases synthesis and secretion of VEGF in rat vascular smooth muscle cells: role of
oxidative stress and impairment in obesity. Int J Mol Sci. 2013 Sep 13;14(9):18861-80.
47
INTERNAL MEDICINE I
Prof. Massimo
TERZOLO Associate Professor
Dr. Giuseppe
REIMONDO Assistant Professor
Dr. Anna
PIA Medical Doctor
Dr. Fulvia C.
DAFFARA Medical Doctor
Dr. Marcella
COLETTA Medical Doctor,
Fellowship
Dr. Vittoria
BASILE Medical Doctor
Dr. Barbara
ZAGGIA Medical Doctor
Dr. Chiara
SCIOLLA Fellowship
Dr. Laura
SABA Research Technician
Dr. Antonina
GERMANO Fellowship
Dr. Angela
TERMINE Research Technician
Dr. Paola
PEROTTI Data manager
Fiorenza
CATINO Secretary
Current Research Projects
The current research projects of Prof. Terzolo’s group are mainly related to two main topics and
concern either preclinical or clinical aspects:
benign adrenal tumors;
malignant adrenal tumors (adrenocortical carcinoma, ACC).
Research projects on the first area involve analysis of a number of polymorphisms of the
glucocorticoid receptor gene in patients with adrenal incidentaloma; definition of management and
follow-up strategies of subclinical hypercortisolism; evaluation of biomarkers predictive of
peripheral cortisol effect; assessment of the natural history of adrenal incidentalomas.
48
Research projects in the second area involve analysis of polymorphisms of mitochondrial
enzymes on the pharmacokinetics of mitotane, the reference treatment for ACC; in vitro
assessment of the cytotoxic activity of different drugs (such as mitotane and gemcitabine)
in ACC cell lines; assessment of markers predictive of efficacy for adjuvant mitotane
and of prognostic markers in ACC; assessment of novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools
for ACC patients.
49
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Baratelli C, Brizzi MP, Tampellini M, Scagliotti GV, Priola A, Terzolo M, Pia A, Berruti A.
Intermittent everolimus administration for malignant insulinoma. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab
Case Rep. 2014;2014:140047.
Ronchi CL, Sbiera S, Volante M, Steinhauer S, Scott-Wild V, Altieri B, Kroiss M, Bala M,
Papotti M, Deutschbein T, Terzolo M, Fassnacht M, Allolio B. CYP2W1 is highly expressed
in adrenal glands and is positively associated with the response to mitotane in adrenocortical
carcinoma. PLoS One. 2014 Aug 21;9(8):e105855.
Duregon E, Rapa I, Votta A, Giorcelli J, Daffara F, Terzolo M, Scagliotti GV, Volante M,
Papotti M. MicroRNA expression patterns in adrenocortical carcinoma variants and clinical
pathologic correlations. Hum Pathol. 2014 Aug;45(8):1555-62.
Terzolo M, Zaggia B, Allasino B, De Francia S. Practical treatment using mitotane for
adrenocortical carcinoma. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2014 Jun;21(3):159-65.
Duregon E, Molinaro L, Volante M, Ventura L, Righi L, Bolla S, Terzolo M, Sapino A,
Papotti MG. Comparative diagnostic and prognostic performances of the hematoxylin-eosin
and phospho-histone H3 mitotic count and Ki-67 index in adrenocortical carcinoma. Mod
Pathol. 2014 Sep;27(9):1246-54.
Terzolo M, Allasino B, Pia A, Peraga G, Daffara F, Laino F, Ardito A, Termine A, Paccotti P,
Berchialla P, Migliaretti G, Reimondo G. Surgical Remission of Cushing's syndrome reduces
cardiovascular risk. Eur J Endocrinol. 2014 Jul;171(1):127-36. Epub 2014 May 6.
Morelli V, Reimondo G, Giordano R, Della Casa S, Policola C, Palmieri S, Salcuni AS, Dolci
A, Mendola M, Arosio M, Ambrosi B, Scillitani A, Ghigo E, Beck- Peccoz P, Terzolo M,
Chiodini I. Long-term follow-up in adrenal incidentalomas: an Italian multicenter study. J
Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2014 Mar;99(3):827-34.
Berruti A, Fassnacht M, Haak H, Else T, Baudin E, Sperone P, Kroiss M, Kerkhofs T,
Williams AR, Ardito A, Leboulleux S, Volante M, Deutschbein T, Feelders R, Ronchi C,
Grisanti S, Gelderblom H, Porpiglia F, Papotti M, Hammer GD, Allolio B, Terzolo M.
Prognostic role of overt hypercortisolism in completely operated patients with adrenocortical
cancer. Eur Urol. 2014 Apr;65(4):832-8.
Germano A, Rapa I, Volante M, Lo Buono N, Carturan S, Berruti A, Terzolo M, Papotti M.
Cytotoxic activity of gemcitabine, alone or in combination with mitotane, in adrenocortical
carcinoma cell lines. Mol Cell Endocrinol. 2014 Jan 25;382(1):1-7.
Gentilin E, Tagliati F, Terzolo M, Zoli M, Lapparelli M, Minoia M, Ambrosio MR, Degli
Uberti EC, Zatelli MC. Mitotane reduces human and mouse ACTH-secreting pituitary cell
viability and function. J Endocrinol. 2013 Jul 29;218(3):275-85.
Reimondo G, Bondanelli M, Ambrosio MR, Grimaldi F, Zaggia B, Zatelli MC, Allasino B,
Laino F, Aroasio E, Termine A, Conton P, Paoletta A, Demenis E, Uberti ED, Terzolo M.
Growth hormone values after an oral glucose load do not add clinically useful information in
patients with acromegaly on long-term somatostatin receptor ligand treatment. Endocrine.
2014 Feb;45(1):122-7.
50
Duregon E, Fassina A, Volante M, Nesi G, Santi R, Gatti G, Cappellesso R, Dalino
Ciaramella P, Ventura L, Gambacorta M, Dei Tos AP, Loli P, Mannelli M, Mantero F, Berruti
A, Terzolo M, Papotti M. The reticulin algorithm for adrenocortical tumor diagnosis: a
multicentric validation study on 245 unpublished cases. Am J Surg Pathol. 2013
Sep;37(9):1433-40.
Pia A, Vignani F, Attard G, Tucci M, Bironzo P, Scagliotti G, Arlt W, Terzolo M, Berruti A.
Strategies for managing ACTH dependent mineralocorticoid excess induced by abiraterone.
Cancer Treat Rev. 2013 Dec;39(8):966-73.
D'Avolio A, De Francia S, Basile V, Cusato J, De Martino F, Pirro E, Piccione F, Ardito A,
Zaggia B, Volante M, Di Perri G, Terzolo M. Influence of the CYP2B6 polymorphism on the
pharmacokinetics of mitotane. Pharmacogenet Genomics. 2013 Jun;23(6):293-300.
Chortis V, Taylor AE, Schneider P, Tomlinson JW, Hughes BA, O'Neil DM, Libé R, Allolio
B, Bertagna X, Bertherat J, Beuschlein F, Fassnacht M, Karavitaki N, Mannelli M, Mantero
F, Opocher G, Porfiri E, Quinkler M, Sherlock M, Terzolo M, Nightingale P, Shackleton CH,
Stewart PM, Hahner S, Arlt W. Mitotane therapy in adrenocortical cancer induces CYP3A4
and inhibits 5α-reductase, explaining the need for personalized glucocorticoid and androgen
replacement. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2013 Jan;98(1):161-71.
Duregon E, Volante M, Giorcelli J, Terzolo M, Lalli E, Papotti M. Diagnostic and prognostic
role of steroidogenic factor 1 in adrenocortical carcinoma: a validation study focusing on
clinical and pathologic correlates. Hum Pathol. 2013 May;44(5):822-8.
51
IRON METABOLISM
Prof. Giuseppe
SAGLIO Full Professor
Dr. Antonella
ROETTO Research Technician
Dr.Rosa Maria
PELLEGRINO PhD Student
Dr. Martina
BOERO PhD Student
Dr. Antonietta
PALMIERI Fellowship
Dr. Ludovica
FERBO Specialization
Student
Dr. Carmen
FAVA Assistant Professor
Current Research Projects
The team studies the genetic basis of iron homeostasis trying to elucidate in particular the role of
TFR2 in iron metabolism utilizing Tfr2 mouse models.
The Transferrin receptor 2 (TFR2) gene codifies for an iron sensor protein and is involved in the
pathogenesis of iron overload genetic disorder named haemochromatosis type 3 (HFE3) Two
alternative transcripts of TFR2 have been reported. Tfr2 proteins, highly expressed in the liver,
acts regulating the hepatic production of hepcidin (Hepc), the iron hormone that modulates body
iron availability. Recent data suggest that Tfr2 is also expressed in extra hepatic tissues like bone
marrow. On the contrary, the widely expressed Tfr2 isoform is involved in iron export from
reticuloendotelial cells.
We have developed three targeted murine models. They are: (A)Tfr2 KO mice, where Tfr2 and
Tfr2 isoforms are germinally inactivated and in which a severe iron overload is present at adult
age; (B)Tfr2 KI mice, in which only the Tfr2isoform inactivated: animals have normal iron level
except in the spleen, where high iron deposition is observed; (C)Tfr2 LCKO-KI mice in which
Tfr2 is silenced only in the liver, while Tfr2 is silenced in all tissues: animals have a severe iron
overload at adult age (Roetto et al, 2010).
.
Tfr2 targeted animals are utilized to study:
Tfr2 isoforms involvement of in different stress conditions
-forced erythropoiesis
-hypoxia
-systemic inflammation
52
-cardiac ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) (in collaboration with Dr Penna/Prof Pagliaro, this
Department).
-iron depletion
Tfr2 involvement in erythropoiesis regulation (in collaboration with Dr Riondato, Dept of
Veterinary Sciences)
Tfr2 involvement in brain iron sensing (in collaboration with Dr Buffo, NICO Foundation)
Tfr2 beta isoform role in host-pathogen interaction (in collaboration with Prof Bozzaro, this
Department).
Part of the team is also involved in molecular biology diagnosis of main genetic iron disorders:
(Hemochromatosis, Iperferritinemia/Cataract and Haemoglobinopathies) (in collaboration with Dr
De Gobbi, this Department).
53
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Nai A, Pellegrino RM, Rausa M, Pagani A, Boero M , Silvestri L, Saglio G, Roetto A,
Camaschella C. The erythroid function of transferrin receptor 2 revealed by Tmprss6
inactivation in different models of transferrin receptor 2 knockout mice. Haematologica. 2014
Jun;99(6):1016-21.
Roetto A, Porto G. A novel mutation in the CUB sequence of matriptase-2 (TMPRSS6) is
implicated in iron-resistant iron deficiency anaemia . Br J Haematol. 2013 Feb;160(4):566-7.
54
LIVER & GUT PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
Prof. Maurizio
PAROLA Full Professor
Prof. Antonella
MIGLIETTA Associate Professor
Dr. Erica
NOVO Assistant Professor
Dr. Claudia
BOCCA Assistant Professor
Dr. Claudia PATERNOSTRO Postdoctoral Fellowship
Dr. Stefania
CANNITO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Elisabetta
MORELLO PhD Student
Current Research Projects
Main Research interests. To investigate (experimental and translational, at morphological, cell &
molecular biology level) mechanisms and processes underlying fibrogenic progression of chronic
liver diseases (CLDs) and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as well as of
colorectal cancer (CRC).
Specific areas of research.
To investigate the mechanistic role of hypoxia, hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) and of related
target genes and mechanisms.
To investigate the molecular cross-talk between cell populations involved in the progression of
CLDs or in the development of HCC or CRC.
To investigate the role of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in cancer development.
To identify novel and reliable biomarkers and to test their diagnostic and/or prognostic significance
in human pathologic specimens (CLDs, HCC, CRC).
To investigate molecular mechanisms and significance of lipotoxicity in the progression of
NAFLD/NASH.
To investigate the effects of Rare Earth Elements (lanthanides) on human hepatocellular and
colorectal cancer cell growth and the underlying mechanisms.
55
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Bocca C, Ievolella M, Autelli R, Motta M, Mosso L, Torchio B, Bozzo F, Cannito S,
Paternostro C, Colombatto S, Parola M, Miglietta A. Expression of COX-2 in human breast
cancer cells as a critical determinant of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and invasiveness.
Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets (2014),18:121-35.
Busletta C, Novo E, Parola M. Human induced pluripotent stem cells as a source of
hepatocyte-like cells: new kids on the block. Hepatology International (2013) 7:299-305.
Cannito S, Paternostro C, Busletta C, Bocca C, Colombatto S, Miglietta A, Novo E, Parola M.
Hypoxia, hypoxia inducible factors and fibrogenesis in chronic liver diseases. Histol
Histopathol (2014), 29:33-44.
Locatelli I, Sutti S, Jandal A, Vacchiano M, Bozzola C, Reutelingsperger C, Kusters D,
Benna S, Parola M, Paternostro C, Bugianesi E, McArthur S, Albano E, Perretti M. The
role of annexin A1 in modulating the progression of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
Hepatology (2014), 60:531-544.
Novo E, Cannito S, Paternostro C, Bocca C, Miglietta A. Parola M. Cellular and molecular
mechanisms in liver fibrogenesis. Arch Biochem Biophys (2014), 548:20-37.
Paternostro C, Busletta C, Cannito S, Novo E, Parola M. Hepatic angiogenesis and
fibrogenesis in the progression of chronic liver diseases. Current Angiogenesis (2013) 2:23-
29.
Povero D, Eguchi A, Niesman IR, Andronikou N, Mollerat du Jeu X, Mulya A, Berk M,
Lazic M, Thapaliya S, Parola M, Patel H, Feldstein AE. Hepatocytes release microparticles
during lipotoxicity that have potent pro-angiogenic effects in vitro and in vivo through Vanin-
1-dependent internalization. Science Signaling (2013) 6 (296) ra88.
Provenzano A, Milani S, Vizzutti F, Delogu W, Navari N, Novo E, Maggiora M, Maurino V.,
Laffi G, Parola M, Marra F. n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids worsen inflammation and fibrosis
in experimental nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Liver Int. (2014), 34:918-30.
Rovida E, Di Maira G, Tusa I, Cannito S, Paternostro C, Navari N, Vivoli E, Deng X, Gray
NS, Esparís-Ogando A, David E, Pandiella A, Dello Sbarba P, Parola M, Marra F. The
mitogen-activated protein kinase ERK5 regulates the development and growth of
hepatocellular carcinoma. Gut (2014), accepted on 4th August 2014.
Sansoè G, Aragno M, Mastrocola R, Paternostro C, Parola M. Calcium receptors located in
fibrotic septa: a new target to reduce portal pressure in liver cirrhosis. Clinical Science (2013),
125:67-75.
Villano G, Turato C, Quarta S, Ruvoletto M, Ciscato F, Terrin L, Semeraro R, Paternostro C,
Parola M, Alvaro D, Bernardi P, Gatta A, Pontisso P. Hepatic progenitor cells overexpress
SerpinB3.BMC Cell Biology (2014),15:5.
56
MOLECULAR ONCO-HEMATOLOGY
Dr. Alessandro
MOROTTI Assistant Professor
Dr. Cristina
PANUZZO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Sabrina
CRIVELLARO PhD student
Dr. Giovanna
CARRÀ Fellowship
Current Research Projects
Definition of the role of PTEN, NFKBIA and DOK2 tumor suppressors in the pathogenesis of
Myeloproliferative Disorders
Identification of novel molecular targeted therapies for Myeloproliferative Disorders
57
Publications 2014
Morotti A, Panuzzo C, Crivellaro S, Carrà G, Guerrasio A, Saglio G. HAUSP
compartmentalization in chronic myeloid leukemia. Eur J Haematol. 2014 Aug 1. [Epub
ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 25082234.
Morotti A, Panuzzo C, Fava C, Saglio G. Kinase-inhibitor-insensitive cancer stem cells in
chronic myeloid leukemia. Expert Opin Biol Ther. 2014 Mar;14(3):287-99. Epub 2014 Jan 3.
PubMed PMID: 24387320.
Morotti A, Panuzzo C, Crivellaro S, Pergolizzi B, Familiari U, Berger AH, Saglio G, Pandolfi
PP. BCR-ABL disrupts PTEN nuclear-cytoplasmic shuttling through phosphorylation-
dependent activation of HAUSP. Leukemia. 2014 Jun;28(6):1326-33. Epub 2013 Dec 9.
PubMed PMID: 24317448.
58
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Prof. Michele
DE BORTOLI, Full Professor
Dr. Santina
CUTRUPI
Assistant Professor
Dr. Stefania
REINERI Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Laura
RICCI Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Andrea
IANELLO Fellowship
Dr. Valentina
MIANO PhD student
Dr. Giulio
FERRERO PhD Student
Ludovica
VANZAN Student
Current Research Projects
Our research focuses on the mechanisms of gene expression control in development and disease,
with special emphasis to the role of Estrogen Receptors. Stemming from fundamental aspect of
regulatory biology, we aim to identifying new therapeutic targets as well as clinically useful
biomarkers. Main pathways of our activity currently are:
- Genome-wide activity of unliganded ERα in breast cancer: transcriptome and chromatin level
studies in breast cancer cells with specific deletion of ERα unravel an unespected role of this
receptor in the absence of hormones. This data has implications in the problem of resistance to
breast cancer treatment with Aromatase Inhibitors.
- the role of LncRNAs in regulatory networks of gene regulation and phenotype determination by
controlling transcription, chromatin epigenetic regulation and post-transcriptional events in breast
cancer. A subset of these ERα-dependent lncRNAs have important functions in the regulation of a
hormone-dependent, epithelial phenotype in breast cancer and are proposed as innovative markers
of hormone-responsiveness.
- the role of ERα in the control of Neuroglobin transcription in neuronal models. This is afforded by
identifying the regulatory sequences in the neuroglobin locus and chromatin-level studies following
59
estrogen stimulation. an important application is the recognized action of estrogens in
neuroprotection
- the role of ERα in the immunomodulation of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) disease during pregnancy
and physical activity programs for MS patients.
New projects:
- Epigenetic modifications of stem cells maintained in culture (Mareschi, Canepa)
- Epigenetic modifications of T lymphocytes infiltrated in pancreas cancer (Novelli)
60
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Caizzi L, Ferrero G, Cutrupi S, Cordero F, Ballaré C, Miano V, Reineri S, Ricci L, Friard O,
Testori A, Cora D, Caselle M, Di Croce L, De Bortoli M. Genome-wide activity of
unliganded estrogen receptor-α in breast cancer cells. PNAS, 2014, 111(13):4892-7.
Cutrupi S, Ferrero G, Reineri S, Cordero F, De Bortoli M. Genomic lens on neuroglobin
transcription. IUBMB Life. 2014 Jan;66(1):46-5.
Cimino D, De Pittà C, Orso F, Zampini M, Casara S, Penna E, Quaglino E, Forni M,
Damasco C, Pinatel E, Ponzone R, Romualdi C, Brisken C, De Bortoli M, Biglia N, Provero
P, Lanfranchi G, Taverna D. miR148b is a major coordinator of breast cancer progression in a
relapse-associated microRNA signature by targeting ITGA5, ROCK1, PIK3CA, NRAS, and
CSF1. FASEB J 2013; 27: 1223-35.
Cutrupi S, Ferrero G, Reineri S, Cordero F, De Bortoli M. Genomic lens on neuroglobin
transcription. IUBMB Life. 2014 ;66(1):46-51.
61
MOLECULAR VIROLOGY AND ANTIVIRAL RESEARCH
Prof. David
LEMBO Associate Professor
Dr. Manuela
DONALISIO Assistant Professor
Dr. Andrea
CIVRA PhD Student
Dr. Valeria
CAGNO PhD Student
Current Research Projects
• Studies on virus-cell interactions
• Research and development of antiviral molecules
• Research and development of innovative formulations based on nanocarriers for the delivery
of antiviral drugs, peptides, and nucleic acids
Viruses routinely screened for antiviral drug discovery in the lab:
- Herpes simplex virus 1 and 2
- Cytomegalovirus
- Human papillomaviruses
- Rotaviruses
- Respiratory syncytial virus
- Rhinovirus
- Adenovirus
62
Recent Publications (2013/2014) Donalisio M, Ranucci E, Cagno V, Civra A, Manfredi A, Cavalli R, Ferruti P, Lembo D.
Agmatine-containing poly(amidoamine)s as novel class of antiviral macromolecules:
structural properties and in vitro evaluation of infectivity inhibition. Antimicrob Agents
Chemother. 2014 Aug 4. pii: AAC.03420-14. [Epub ahead of print]
Cagno V, Donalisio M, Civra A, Volante M, Veccelli E, Oreste P, Rusnati M, Lembo D.
Highly Sulfated K5 Escherichia coli Polysaccharide Derivatives Inhibit Respiratory Syncytial
Virus Infectivity in Cell Lines and Human Tracheal-Bronchial Histocultures. Antimicrob
Agents Chemother. 2014 Aug;58(8):4782-94.
Donalisio M, Massari S, Argenziano M, Manfroni G, Cagno V, Civra A, Sabatini S, Cecchetti
V, Loregian A, Cavalli R, Lembo D, Tabarrini O. Ethyl 1,8-Naphthyridone-3-carboxylates
Downregulate Human Papillomavirus-16 E6 and E7 Oncogene Expression. J Med Chem.
2014 Jul 10;57(13):5649-63.
Calcio Gaudino E, Tagliapietra S, Martina K, Barge A, Lolli M, Terreno E, Lembo D,
Cravotto G. A novel SWCNT platform bearing DOTA and β-cyclodextrin units. "One shot"
multidecoration under microwave irradiation. Org Biomol Chem. 2014 Jul 14;12(26):4708-15.
Lembo D, Donalisio M, Laine C, Cagno V, Civra A, Bianchini EP, Zeghbib N, Bouchemal K.
Auto-associative heparin nanoassemblies: A biomimetic platform against the heparan sulfate-
dependent viruses HSV-1, HSV-2, HPV-16 and RSV. Eur J Pharm Biopharm. 2014 May 14.
pii: S0939-6411(14)00156-8. [Epub ahead of print]
Russo E, Gaglianone N, Baldassari S, Parodi B, Cafaggi S, Zibana C, Donalisio M, Cagno V,
Lembo D, Caviglioli G. Preparation, characterization and in vitro antiviral activity evaluation
of foscarnet-chitosan nanoparticles. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces. 2014 Jun 1;118:117-25.
Donalisio M, Cagno V, Vallino M, Moro GE, Arslanoglu S, Tonetto P, Bertino E, Lembo D.
Inactivation of high-risk human papillomaviruses by Holder pasteurization: implications for
donor human milk banking. J Perinat Med. 2014 Jan;42(1):1-8.
Donalisio M, Nana HM, Ngane RA, Gatsing D, Tchinda AT, Rovito R, Cagno V, Cagliero C,
Boyom FF, Rubiolo P, Bicchi C, Lembo D. In vitro anti-Herpes simplex virus activity of
crude extract of the roots of Nauclea latifolia Smith (Rubiaceae). BMC Complement Altern
Med. 2013 Oct 16;13:266.
Bon I, Lembo D, Rusnati M, Clò A, Morini S, Miserocchi A, Bugatti A, Grigolon S,
Musumeci G, Landolfo S, Re MC, Gibellini D. Peptide-derivatized SB105-A10 dendrimer
inhibits the infectivity of R5 and X4 HIV-1 strains in primary PBMCs and cervicovaginal
histocultures. PLoS One. 2013 Oct 7;8(10):e76482.
Cavalli R, Bisazza A, Lembo D. Micro- and nanobubbles: a versatile non-viral platform for
gene delivery. Int J Pharm. 2013 Nov 18;456(2):437-45. Epub 2013 Sep 2.
Salvador B, Sexton NR, Carrion R Jr, Nunneley J, Patterson JL, Steffen I, Lu K, Muench MO,
Lembo D, Simmons G. Filoviruses utilize glycosaminoglycans for their attachment to target
cells. J Virol. 2013 Mar;87(6):3295-304.
63
Lembo D, Swaminathan S, Donalisio M, Civra A, Pastero L, Aquilano D, Vavia P, Trotta F,
Cavalli R. Encapsulation of Acyclovir in new carboxylated cyclodextrin-based nanosponges
improves the agent's antiviral efficacy. Int J Pharm. 2013 Feb 25;443(1-2):262-72.
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Research Team
www.unito.it/dscb
NEPHROLOGY AND CLINICAL NUTRITION
Prof. Paolo AVAGNINA Associate Professor
Dr. Giorgina B. PICCOLI Assistant Professor
Dr. Federica N. VIGOTTI Postdoctoral Fellowship
Dr. Martina FERRARESI Specialization Student
Dr. Irene CAPIZZI Fellowship
Dr. Elena MONGILARDI Fellowship
Current Research Projects 1) PROTEREN: a new qualitative, multiple-choice approach to low protein diets (LPDs) in chronic kidney disease (CKD).
2) RENIRE: to protect the kidney by losing weight. A new dietary approach for Chronic Kidney Disease overweight/obese patients.
3) Development of a clinical flowchart for end stage CKD patients in conservative therapy, to help defining the “ideal” moment for the start of renal replacement therapy.
4) Quality of life of patients on LPDs: a multicentric survey (Torino-Cagliari-Pisa-Solofra). Expected involvement 500 patients
5) POLIFERE: somatostatin analogue therapy for hepatorenal policystosis.
6) Participation to the european study EQUAL on CKD patients older than 65 years old (first Italian centre for enrolment rate)
7) Outcome research on pregnancy and CKD (cooperation with the Italian Study Group for Kidney and Pregnancy).
8) Ecodialysis: waste management in dialysis. An economical and ecological sustainability project (with Politecnico di Torino)
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Research products
www.unito.it/dscb
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Piccoli GB, Giuva D, Vigotti FN, Ruff D, Finnel S, Seman A, Demartino F, Picillo R, Richiero G. Four seasons for reflecting. Summer: taste and touch. Nephrol Dial Transplant. 2014 Sep;29(9):1675-9.
Piccoli GB, Deagostini MC, Vigotti FN, Ferraresi M, Moro I, Consiglio V, Scognamiglio S, Mongilardi E, Clari R, Aroasio E, Versino E, Porpiglia F. Which low-protein diet for which CKD patient? An observational, personalized approach. Nutrition. 2014 Sep;30(9):992-9.
Bellizzi V, Chiodini P, Cupisti A, Viola BF, Pezzotta M, De Nicola L, Minutolo R, Barsotti G, Piccoli GB, Di Iorio B. Very low-protein diet plus ketoacids in chronic kidney disease and risk of death during end-stage renal disease: an historical, cohort, controlled study. Nephrol Dial Transplant. 2014 Jul 30. pii: gfu251. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 25082793.
Piccoli GB, Roggero S, De Pascale A, Vigotti FN, Piga A, Veltri A. The Case | Microhematuria in a patient with beta-thalassemia major: a casual or a causal association? Kidney Int. 2014 Aug;86(2):450-2.
Piccoli GB, Guzzo G, Vigotti FN, Scognamiglio S, Consiglio V, Aroasio E, Gonella S, Castelluccia N, Mauro G, Colombi N. Chronic dialysis discontinuation: a systematic narrative review of the literature in the new millennium. Int J Artif Organs. 2014 Jul 31;37(7):556-62.
Piccoli GB, Guzzo G, Vigotti FN, Capizzi I, Clari R, Scognamiglio S, Consiglio V, Aroasio E, Gonella S, Veltri A, Avagnina P. Tailoring dialysis and resuming low-protein diets may favor chronic dialysis discontinuation: report on three cases. Hemodial Int. 2014 Jul;18(3):590-5.
Piccoli GB, Priola AM, Vigotti FN, Guzzo G, Veltri A. Renal infarction versus pyelonephritis in a woman presenting with Fever and flank pain. Am J Kidney Dis. 2014 Aug;64(2):311-4. Epub 2014 Apr 22.
Piccoli GB, Cabiddu G, Daidone G, Guzzo G, Maxia S, Ciniglio I, Postorino V, Loi V, Ghiotto S, Nichelatti M, Attini R, Coscia A, Postorino M, Pani A; Italian Study Group “Kidney and Pregnancy”. The children of dialysis: live-born babies from on-dialysis mothers in Italy-an epidemiological perspective comparing dialysis, kidney transplantation and the overall population. Nephrol Dial Transplant. 2014 Aug;29(8):1578-86.
Piccoli GB. [Spending review, personal view, water and waste in (home) hemodialysis]. G Ital Nefrol. 2014 Jan-Feb;31(1). pii: gin/31.1.3. Italian. PubMed PMID: 24671836.
Piccoli GB, Leone F, Attini R, Parisi S, Fassio F, Deagostini MC, FerraresiM, Clari R, Ghiotto S, Biolcati M, Giuffrida D, Rolfo A, Todros T. Association of low-protein supplemented diets with fetal growth in pregnant women with CKD. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2014 May;9(5):864-73.
Veltri A, Gazzera C, Busso M, Solitro F, Piccoli GB, Andreetto B, Garetto I. T1a as the Sole Selection Criterion for RFA of Renal Masses: Randomized Controlled Trials versus Surgery Should Not Be Postponed. Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol. 2013 Dec 13.
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Research products
www.unito.it/dscb
Pecci A, Klersy C, Gresele P, Lee KJ, De Rocco D, Bozzi V, Russo G, Heller PG, Loffredo G, Ballmaier M, Fabris F, Beggiato E, Kahr WH, Pujol-Moix N, Platokouki H, Van Geet C, Noris P, Yerram P, Hermans C, Gerber B, Economou M, De Groot M, Zieger B, De Candia E, Fraticelli V, Kersseboom R, Piccoli GB, Zimmermann S, Fierro T, Glembotsky AC, Vianello F, Zaninetti C, Nicchia E, Güthner C, Baronci C, Seri M, Knight PJ, Balduini CL, Savoia A. MYH9-related disease: a novel prognostic model to predict the clinical evolution of the disease based on genotype-phenotype correlations. Hum Mutat. 2014 Feb;35(2):236-47.
Piccoli GB, Tavassoli E, Melluzza C, Grassi G, Monzeglio C, Donvito V, Leone F, Attini R, Ghiotto S, Clari R, Moro I, Fassio F, Parisi S, Pilloni E, Vigotti FN, Giuffrida D, Rolfo A, Todros T. Severe diabetic nephropathy in type 1 diabetes and pregnancy--a case series. Rev Diabet Stud. 2013 Spring;10(1):68-78.
Piccoli GB, Clari R, Ghiotto S, Castelluccia N, Colombi N, Mauro G, Tavassoli E, Melluzza C, Cabiddu G, Gernone G, Mongilardi E, Ferraresi M, Rolfo A, Todros T. Type 1 diabetes, diabetic nephropathy, and pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-study. Rev Diabet Stud. 2013 Spring;10(1):6-26.
Piccoli GB, Ferraresi M, Deagostini MC, Vigotti FN, Consiglio V, Scognamiglio S, Moro I, Clari R, Fassio F, Biolcati M, Porpiglia F. Vegetarian low-protein diets supplemented with keto analogues: a niche for the few or an option for many? Nephrol Dial Transplant. 2013 Sep;28(9):2295-305.
De Pascale A, Piccoli GB, Priola SM, Rognone D, Consiglio V, Garetto I, Rizzo L, Veltri A. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging: new perspectives in the diagnostic pathway of non-complicated acute pyelonephritis. Eur Radiol. 2013 Nov;23(11):3077-86.
Piccoli GB, Attini R, Parisi S, Vigotti FN, Daidola G, Deagostini MC, Ferraresi M, De Pascale A, Porpiglia F, Veltri A, Todros T. Excessive urinary tract dilatation and proteinuria in pregnancy: a common and overlooked association? BMC Nephrol. 2013 Feb 27;14:52.
Piccoli GB, Daidola G, Attini R, Parisi S, Fassio F, Naretto C, Deagostini MC, Castelluccia N, Ferraresi M, Roccatello D, Todros T. Kidney biopsy in pregnancy: evidence for counselling? A systematic narrative review. BJOG. 2013 Mar;120(4):412-27.
Piccoli GB, Gaglioti P, Attini R, Parisi S, Bossotti C, Olearo E, Oberto M, Ferraresi M, Rolfo A, Versino E, Biolcati M, Todros T. Pre-eclampsia or chronic kidney disease? The flow hypothesis. Nephrol Dial Transplant. 2013 May;28(5):1199-206.
Piccoli GB, Arduino S, Attini R, Parisi S, Fassio F, Biolcati M, Pagano A, Bossotti C, Vasario E, Borgarello V, Daidola G, Ferraresi M, Gaglioti P, Todros T. Multiple pregnancies in CKD patients: an explosive mix. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2013 Jan;8(1):41-50.
Rolfo A, Attini R, Nuzzo AM, Piazzese A, Parisi S, Ferraresi M, Todros T, Piccoli GB. Chronic kidney disease may be differentially diagnosed from preeclampsia by serum biomarkers. Kidney Int. 2013 Jan;83(1):177-81.
Giacchino F, Piccoli G, Colla L, Fenoglio R, Marazzi F, Amore A, Rollino C, Stratta P. [Acute pielonephritis and renal abscesses in Piedmont and Aosta Valley]. G Ital Nefrol. 2014 Jul-Aug;31(4). pii: gin/31.4.10. Italian. PubMed PMID: 25098465.
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Research products
www.unito.it/dscb
Piccoli G. [The Canadian Society of Nephrology 2014 clinical practice guideline for timing the initiation of chronic dialysis: a paradigm shift and the return of the clinical nephrologist]. G Ital Nefrol. 2014 May-Jun;31(3). Pii: gin/31.3.8. Italian. PubMed PMID: 25030011.
Vigotti FN, Guzzo G, Capizzi I, Teta L, Ippolito D, Mirasole S, Giuffrida D, Avagnina P, Piccoli G. [Intensive weight-loss in dialysis: a personalized approach]. G Ital Nefrol. 2014 Mar-Apr;31(2).
Capobianco M, Piccoli G, Neve Vigotti F, Scapoli P, Deagostini MC, Albera C, Roccatello D, Bertolotto A. Interferon beta-related nephropathy and interstitial lung disease: a new association and a long-term warning. Mult Scler. 2014 Jan 20.
Piccoli Giorgina (indexed as Barbara PG). “Advice to the medical students in my service": the rediscovery of a golden book by Jean Hamburger, father of nephrology and of medical humanities. Philos Ethics Humanit Med. 2013 Mar 15;8:2.
68
NEUROLOGY
Prof. Luca
DURELLI Full Professor
Dr. Marinella
CLERICO Assistant Professor
Dr. Stefania
DE MERCANTI PhD Student
Current Research Projects
We are conducting different projects on Multiple Sclerosis, the more relevant are 1) Role of
estrogen receptor alpha in multiple sclerosis 2) Phase IV study on comparison of the efficacy of
Natalizumab vs Fingolimod in Multiple Sclerosis 3) Role of anti-IFN neutralizing antibodies: a
Cochrane review 4) Study of psychiatric disorder in Multiple Sclerosis: a longitudinal study 5)
Psycho-pedagogic project on multiple sclerosis patients.
In the near future we will start some researches on different neurologic disease: Neurodegenerative
disorders (Parkinson disease and Alzheimer disease), Hereditary ataxias.
69
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Patti F, Morra VB, Amato MP, Trojano M, Bastianello S, Tola MR, Durelli L, Cottone
S,Plant A, Picconi O; COGIMUS Study Group. Subcutaneous interferon β-1a may protect
against cognitive impairment in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: 5-year
follow-up of the COGIMUS study. PLoS One. 2013 Aug30;8(8):e74111.
Pupillo E, Messina P, Giussani G, Logroscino G, Zoccolella S, Chiò A, Calvo A, Corbo M,
Lunetta C, Durelli L, Marin B, Mitchell D, Hardiman O, Rooney J, Stevic Z, Bandettini di
Poggio M, Filosto M, Cotelli MS, Perini M, Riva N, Tremolizzo L, Vitelli E, Damiani D,
Beghi E; EURALS Consortium. Physical activity and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a
European population-based case-control study. Ann Neurol. 2014 May;75(5):708-16.
Chiò A, Calvo A, Bovio G, Canosa A, Bertuzzo D, Galmozzi F, Cugnasco P, Clerico M, De
Mercanti S, Bersano E, Cammarosano S, Ilardi A, Manera U, Moglia C, Sideri R, Marinou K,
Bottacchi E, Pisano F, Cantello R, Mazzini L, Mora G; for the Piemonte and Valle d’Aosta
Register for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (PARALS). Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Outcome Measures and the Role of Albumin and Creatinine: A Population-Based Study.
JAMA Neurol. 2014 Jul 21.
Clerico M, Schiavetti I, De Mercanti SF, Piazza F, Gned D, Brescia Morra V, Lanzillo R,
Ghezzi A, Bianchi A, Salemi G, Realmuto S, Sola P, Vitetta F, Cavalla P, Paolicelli D,
Trojano M, Sormani MP, Durelli L. Treatment of Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
After 24 Doses of Natalizumab: Evidence From an Italian Spontaneous, Prospective, and
Observational Study (the TY-STOP Study). JAMA Neurol. 2014 Aug 1;71(8):954-60.
Rolla S, Bardina V, De Mercanti S, Quaglino P, Palma RD, Gned D, Brusa D, Durelli L,
Novelli F, Clerico M. Th22 cells are expanded in multiple sclerosis and are resistant to IFN-β.
J Leukoc Biol. 2014 Aug 5.
Soragni E, Miao W, Iudicello M, Jacoby D, Demercanti S, Clerico M, Longo F, Piga A, Ku S,
Campau E, Du J, Penalver P, Rai M, Madara JC, Nazor K, O'Connor M, Maximov A, Loring
JF, Pandolfo M, Durelli L, Gottesfeld JM, Rusche JR. Epigenetic therapy for Friedreich's
ataxia. Ann Neurol. 2014 Aug 27.
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OBSTRUCTIVE LUNG DISEASE
Prof. Fabio L.M.
RICCIARDOLO Assistant Professor
Dr. Valentina
SORBELLO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Ilaria
LEONE Fellowship
Current Research Projects
The current research projects are focused on three main directions:
clinical research about asthma control in relation to functional parameters, non-invasive
biomarkers and comordibities;
translational research in Asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) focused on
the role of invasive biomarkers involved in pathogenetic mechanisms related to disease severity;
basic research focused on the role of epithelial cells and fibroblasts in the modulation of airway
chronic inflammation and remodeling.
71
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Ricciardolo FLM, Sorbello V, Ciprandi G. FeNO as biomarker for asthma phenotyping and
management. Allergy Asthma Proc 2014; In Press.
Ciprandi G, Ricciardolo FLM, Sciavetti I, Cirillo I. Allergic rhinitis phenotypes based on
bronchial hyperreactivity to methacholine. Am J Rhinol Allergy 2014; In Press.
Ciprandi G, Cirillo I, Ricciardolo FLM. The relevance of obesity on asthma control in
identical twins. Allergology Intern 2014; In Press.
Papi A, Blasi F, Canonica GW, Cazzola M, Centanni S, Foschino Barbaro MP, Melani AS,
Paggiaro P, Ricciardolo F, Rossi A, Scichilone N. Fluticasone propionate/formoterol: A
fixed-combination therapy with flexible dosage. Eur J Intern Med. 2014 Oct;25(8):695-700.
Epub 2014 Jul 19. Review.
Ciprandi G, Schiavetti I, Bellezza Fontana R, Sorbello V, Ricciardolo FLM. Overweight and
obesity as risk factors for impaired lung function in patients with asthma: A real-life
experience. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2014 Jul-Aug;35(4):e62-71.
Masoero M, Bellocchia M, Ciuffreda A, Ricciardolo FLM, Rolla G, Bucca C. Laryngeal
spasm mimicking asthma and vitamin d deficiency. Allergy Asthma Immunol Res. 2014
May;6(3):267-9. Epub 2014
Malerba M, Radaeli A, Olivini A, Damiani G, Ragnoli B, Montuschi P, Ricciardolo FLM.
Exhaled nitric oxide as a biomarker in COPD and related comorbidities. Biomed Res Int.
2014;2014:271918. Epub 2014 Feb 27.
Eleuteri E, Di Stefano A, Vallese D, Gnemmi I, Pitruzzella A, Tarro Genta F, Delle Donne
L, Cappello F, Ricciardolo FL, Giannuzzi P. Fibrosis markers and CRIM1 increase in
chronic heart failure of increasing severity. Biomarkers. 2014 May;19(3):214-21. Epub 2014
Mar 11.
Boita M, Garzaro M, Raimondo L, Riva G, Mazibrada J, Pecorari G, Bucca C, Bellone G,
Vizio B, Heffler E, Ricciardolo FLM, Rolla G. Eosinophilic inflammation of chronic
rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps is related to OX40 ligand expression. Boita M, Garzaro M,
Raimondo L, Riva G, Mazibrada J, Pecorari G, Bucca C, Bellone G, Vizio B, Heffler E,
Ricciardolo FLM, Rolla G. Innate Immun. 2014 Feb 28. [Epub ahead of print]
Ricciardolo FLM. Revisiting the role of exhaled nitric oxide in asthma. Curr Opin Pulm
Med. 2014 Jan;20(1):53-9. Review.
Ciprandi G, Ricciardolo FL, Signori A, Schiavetti I, Monardo M, Ferraro MR, Cirillo I.
Increased body mass index and bronchial impairment in allergic rhinitis. Am J Rhinol
Allergy. 2013 Nov-Dec;27(6):e195-201.
Ciprandi G, Cirillo I, Pasotti F, Ricciardolo FLM. FEF25-75: a marker for small airways and
asthma control. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2013 Sep;111(3):233. Epub 2013 Jul 16. No
abstract available.
72
Ricciardolo FLM, Sabatini F, Sorbello V, Benedetto S, Defilippi I, Petecchia L, Usai C,
Gnemmi I, Balbi B, De Rose V, Ten Hacken NH, Postma DS, Timens W, Di Stefano A.
Expression of vascular remodelling markers in relation to bradykinin receptors in asthma
and COPD. Thorax. 2013 Sep;68(9):803-11. Epub 2013 Jun 5.
Heffler E, Pizzimenti S, Badiu I, Guida G, Ricciardolo FLM, Bucca C, Rolla G. Nasal nitric
oxide is a marker of poor asthma control. J Breath Res. 2013 Jun;7(2):026009. Epub 2013
May 10.
Sabatini F, Luppi F, Petecchia L, Stefano AD, Longo AM, Eva A, Vanni C, Hiemstra PS,
Sterk PJ, Sorbello V, Fabbri LM, Rossi GA, Ricciardolo FLM. Bradykinin-induced
asthmatic fibroblast/myofibroblast activities via bradykinin B2 receptor and different
MAPK pathways. Eur J Pharmacol. 2013 Jun 15;710(1-3):100-9. Epub 2013 Apr 12.
Albano GD, Di Sano C, Bonanno A, Riccobono L, Gagliardo R, Chanez P, Gjomarkaj M,
Montalbano AM, Anzalone G, La Grutta S, Ricciardolo FLM, Profita M. Th17 immunity in
children with allergic asthma and rhinitis: a pharmacological approach. PLoS One.
2013;8(4):e58892. Epub 2013 Apr 3.
Ricciardolo FLM, Sorbello V, Silvestri M, Giacomelli M, Debenedetti VM, Malerba M,
Ciprandi G, Rossi GA, Rossi A, Bontempelli M. TNF-alpha, IL-4R-alpha and IL-4
polymorphisms in mild to severe asthma from Italian Caucasians. Int J Immunopathol
Pharmacol. 2013 Jan-Mar;26(1):75-84.
Sterk PJ, Ricciardolo FLM. Clinical-biological phenotyping beyond inflammation in asthma
delivers. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2013 Jan 15;187(2):117-8. No abstract available.
Cirillo I, Ricciardolo FLM, Medusei G, Signori A, Ciprandi G. Exhaled nitric oxide may
predict bronchial hyperreactivity in patients with allergic rhinitis. Int Arch Allergy Immunol.
2013;160(3):322-8. Epub 2012 Oct 9.
Overbeek SA, Kleinjan M, Henricks PA, Kamp VM, Ricciardolo FLM, Georgiou NA,
Garssen J, Kraneveld AD, Folkerts G. Chemo-attractant N-acetyl proline-glycine-proline
induces CD11b/CD18-dependent neutrophil adhesion. Biochim Biophys Acta. 2013
Jan;1830(1):2188-93. Epub 2012 Oct 3.
73
PEDIATRICS
Prof. Antonio G.
PIGA Associate Professor
Dr. Filomena
LONGO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Simona
ROGGERO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Arianna
CANUTO Fellowship
Dr. Erica
LONGONI Fellowship
Dr. Marianna
GENISIO Fellowship
Dr. Ilaria
ALASIA Fellowship
Dr. Cecilia
Maria PINI Fellowship
Current Research Projects
-Modulation of erythropoiesis by activin receptor ligands
-Pathogen inactivation in blood products
-New markers of iron toxicity in iron disorders
-Optimization of iron chelation therapy by combination of iron chelating agents
-New approaches to transition medicine for hemoglobinopathies and rare diseases
74
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Piga A, Longo F, Origa R, Roggero S, Pinna F, Zappu A, Castiglioni C, Cappellini MD.
Deferasirox for cardiac siderosis in β-thalassaemia major: a multicentre, open label,
prospective study. Br J Haematol. 2014 Jun 30. [Epub ahead of print]
Pennell DJ, Porter JB, Piga A, Lai Y, El-Beshlawy A, Belhoul KM, Elalfy M, Yesilipek A,
Kilinç Y, Lawniczek T, Habr D, Weisskopf M, Zhang Y, Aydinok Y; CORDELIA study
investigators. A 1-year randomized controlled trial of deferasirox vs deferoxamine for
myocardial iron removal in β-thalassemia major (CORDELIA). Blood. 2014 Mar
6;123(10):1447-54.
Derchi G, Galanello R, Bina P, Cappellini MD, Piga A, Lai ME, Quarta A, Casu G, Perrotta
S, Pinto V, Musallam KM, Forni GL; Webthal Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Group.
Prevalence and risk factors for pulmonary arterial hypertension in a large group of β-
thalassemia patients using right heart catheterization: a Webthal study. Circulation. 2014 Jan
21;129(3):338-45.
Soragni E, Miao W, Iudicello M, Jacoby D, De Mercanti S, Clerico M, Longo F, Piga A, Ku
S, Campau E, Du J, Penalver P, Rai M, Madara JC, Nazor K, O'Connor M, Maximov A,
Loring JF, Pandolfo M, Durelli L, Gottesfeld JM, Rusche JR. Epigenetic therapy for
Friedreich ataxia. Ann Neurol. 2014 Aug 27.
Piccoli GB, Roggero S, De Pascale A, Vigotti FN, Piga A, Veltri A. The case.
Microhematuria in a patient with beta- thalassemia major: a casual or a causal association?
Kidney Int. 2014 Aug;86(2):450-2.
Borgna-Pignatti C, Garani MC, Forni GL, Cappellini MD, Cassinerio E, Fidone C, Spadola
V, Maggio A, Restivo Pantalone G, Piga A, Longo F, Gamberini MR, Ricchi P, Costantini S,
D'Ascola D, Cianciulli P, Lai ME, Carta MP, Ciancio A, Cavalli P, Putti MC, Barella S,
Amendola G, Campisi S, Capra M, Caruso V, Colletta G, Volpato S. Hepatocellular
carcinoma in thalassaemia: an update of the Italian Registry. Br J Haematol. 2014
Oct;167(1):121-6.
Roggero S, Vullo S, Volpe G, Piga A, Albera C. Management of pulmonary arterial
hypertension associated to thalassemia: when pulmonary endarterectomy is the best
therapeutical option? A case report. J Thromb Thrombolysis. 2014 May 1.
Ruo Redda MG, Allis S, Reali A, Bartoncini S, Roggero S, Anglesio SM, Piga A. Complete
recovery from paraparesis in spinal cord compression due to extramedullary haemopoiesis in
beta-thalassaemia by emergency radiation therapy. Intern Med J. 2014 Apr;44(4):409-12.
Origa R, Sollaino MC, Borgna-Pignatti C, Piga A, Feliu Torres A, Masile V, Galanello R. α-
globin gene quadruplication and heterozygous β-thalassemia: a not so rare cause of
thalassemia intermedia. Acta Haematol. 2014;131(3):162-4.
Fernandes JL, Sampaio EF, Fertrin K, Coelho OR, Loggetto S, Piga A, Verissimo M, Saad
ST. Amlodipine reduces cardiac iron overload in patients with thalassemia major: a pilot trial.
Am J Med. 2013 Sep;126(9):834-7.
Pennell DJ, Udelson JE, Arai AE, Bozkurt B, Cohen AR, Galanello R, Hoffman TM, Kiernan
MS, Lerakis S, Piga A, Porter JB, Walker JM, Wood J; American Heart Association
Committee on Heart Failure and Transplantation of the Council on Clinical Cardiology and
75
Council on Cardiovascular Radiology and Imaging. Cardiovascular function and treatment in
β-thalassemia major: a consensus statement from the American Heart Association.
Circulation. 2013 Jul 16;128(3):281-308.
Piga A, Longo F, Musallam KM, Cappellini MD, Forni GL, Quarta G, Chiavilli F,
Commendatore F, Mulas S, Caruso V, Galanello R. Assessment and management of iron
overload in β-thalassaemia major patients during the 21st century: a real-life experience from
the Italian WEBTHAL project. Br J Haematol. 2013 Jun;161(6):872-83.
76
PHARMACOLOGY AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SERVICE
Prof. Silvia
RACCA Associate Professor
Dr. Barbara
MOGNETTI Assistant Professor
Dr. Giuliana
ABBADESSA Research Technician
Dr. Elisa
PIRRO Research Technician
Dr. Silvia
DE FRANCIA Pharmacology
Consultant
Dr. Vitina
CARRIERO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Francesca
Bertolini PhD Student
Dr. Paolo
CARDALANA Fellowship
Current Research Projects
• Retrospective (and prospective) pharmacogenetic studies on potential impact of genetic
variants on drug levels (gene under investigation: CYP2B6 for Mitotane and Phenytoin; CYP1A1
and CYP1A2 for Deferasirox; CYP2C19 for Voriconazole, ABCB1 for Dasatinib and Phenytoin).
• The importance of BCLI and N363S polymorphisms on the response to glucocorticoids in
asthma treatment.
• Study on the antioxidant activity of anabolic androgen steroids in heart cell culture.
• Biomelecular and genetic investigation to ascertain suspected link between
lymphangioleiomyomatosis and angiomyolipoma.
• Study of the anti-diabetic drug metformin influence on rat skeletal muscle to establish if
metformin is able to improve muscle mass and physical performance.
Clinical Pharmacology service activities
Plasma analyses for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of: antineoplastic agents (Mitotane,
Methotrexate); tyrosine kinases inhibitors (Imatinib, Dasatinib and Nilotinib); cardiovascular drugs
(Hydroquinidine, Flecainide, Amiodarone and Propafenone); antifungal agents (Posaconazole and
Voriconazole); chelating agents (Deferasirox); antiepileptics drugs (Levetiracetam, Oxcarbazepine
and Metabolite, Lamotrigine e Phenytoin); antibiotics (Vancomycin, Teicoplanin).
77
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Dimauro I, Grasso L, Fittipaldi S, Fantini C, Mercatelli N, Racca S, Geuna S, Di
Gianfrancesco A, Caporossi D, Pigozzi F, Borrione P. Platelet-rich plasma and skeletal
muscle healing: a molecular analysis of the early phases of the regeneration process in an
experimental animal model. PLoS One. 2014; 9(7):e102993.
Trotta F, Dianzani C, Caldera F, Mognetti B, Cavalli R. The application of nanosponges to
cancer drug delivery. Expert Opin Drug Deliv. 2014 Jun;11(6):931-41.
Mognetti B, La Montagna G, Perrelli MG, Marino S, Pagliaro P, Cracco CM, Penna C.
Zoledronic acid and leuprorelin acetate, alone or in combination, similarly reduce
proliferation and migration of prostate cancer cells In vitro. International Journal of Medical
Biology, 2014, 1, ID 235870
Cusato J, Allegra S, Massano D, De Francia S, Piga A, D'Avolio A. Influence of single-
nucleotide polymorphisms on deferasirox C(trough) levels and effectiveness.
Pharmacogenomics J., 2014.
Borrione P, Grasso L, Chierto E, Geuna S, Racca S, Abbadessa G, Ronchi G, Faiola F,
Di Gianfrancesco A, Pigozzi F. Experimental model for the study of the effects of platelet-
rich plasma on the early phases of muscle healing. BloodTransfus. 2014;12 Suppl 1:s221-8.
De Francia S, DʼAvolio A, Ariaudo A, Pirro E, Piccione F, Simiele M, Fava C, Calcagno
A, Di Perri G, Saglio G. Plasma and intracellular imatinib concentrations in patients with
chronic myeloid leukemia. Ther Drug Monit. 2014;36(3):410-2.
Terzolo M, Zaggia B, Allasino B, De Francia S. Practical treatment using mitotane for
adrenocortical carcinoma. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2014; 21(3):159-65.
Mognetti B, La Montagna G, Perrelli MG, Pagliaro P, Penna C. Bone marrow
mesenchymal stem cells increase motility of prostate cancer cells via production of stromal
cell-derived factor-1α. J Cell Mol Med., 2013 Feb;17(2):287-92.
Terzolo M, Baudin AE, Ardito A, Kroiss M, Leboulleux S, Daffara F, Perotti P, Feelders
RA, deVries JH, Zaggia B, De Francia S, Volante M, Haak HR, Allolio B, Al Ghuzlan A,
Fassnacht M, Berruti A. Mitotane levels predict the outcome of patients with adrenocortical
carcinoma treated adjuvantly following radical resection. Eur J Endocrinol., 2013,
169(3):263-70.
D'Avolio A, De Francia S, Basile V, Cusato J, De Martino F, Pirro E, Piccione F, Ardito
A, Zaggia B, Volante M, Di Perri G, Terzolo M. Influence of the CYP2B6 polymorphism
on the pharmacokinetics of mitotane. Pharmacogenet Genomics. 2013, 23(6):293-300.
Serdiuk T, Lysenko V, Mognetti B, Skryshevsky V, Géloën A. Impact of cell division on
intracellular uptake and nuclear targeting with fluorescent SiC-based nanoparticles. J
Biophotonics. 2013 Mar;6(3):291-7. Epub 2012 Jun 1
78
PSYCHIATRY
Dr. Rocco Luigi
PICCI Assistant Professor
Dr. Francesco
OLIVA
Assistant Professor
Current Research Projects
Quality of life and co-occurrence of psychiatry disorders among patients with alcohol use disorder
- Use and abuse of “Legal highs”, bath salts, and other synthetic cathinones
- Peer-education among high school children to prevent alcohol and substances use/abuse
- Relationship between Type-D (distress) personality and essential hypertension
- Evaluation of the level of pertinence of Compulsory Admission
- Homocysteine blood level and mixed features mood disorder
- The role of glial cell and glutamate pathway in the development of psychiatric disorder
79
Recent Publications (2013/2014) Oliva F, Dalmotto M, Pirfo E, Furlan PM, Picci RL (2014) A comparison of thought and
perception disorders in borderline personality disorder and schizophrenia: psychotic
experiences as a reaction to impaired social functioning, BMC Psychiatry, pp. 14:239
Picci RL, Oliva F, Zuffranieri M, Vizzuso P, Ostacoli L, Sodano AJ, Furlan PM (2014)
Quality of life, alcohol detoxification and relapse: Is quality of life a predictor of relapse or
only a secondary outcome measure?, Quality Of Life Research (ISSN:0962-9343), pp. 1- 11.
Cavallo M, Trivelli F, Adenzato M, Bidoia E, Giaretto RM, Oliva F, Ostacoli L, Sala A, Picci
RL (2013) DO Neuropsychological and social cognition abilities in schizophrenia change
after intensive cognitive training? A pilot study, Clinical Neuropsychiatry (ISSN:1724-4935),
pp. 202- 211. Vol. 10.
Picci RL, Oliva F, Trivelli F, Carezana C, Zuffranieri M, Ostacoli L, Furlan PM, Lala R
(2013) Emotional Burden and Coping Strategies of Parents of Children with Rare Diseases,
Journal Of Child And Family Studies (ISSN:1062-1024), pp. 1- 9.
Rosso C, Garombo M, Oliva F, Furlan PM, Picci RL (2014) Efficacia, target e contesti dei
trattamenti per gli autori di reati sessuali, Rassegna Italiana Di Criminologia (ISSN:1121-
1717), Pp. 6- 11. Vol. 1.
Aguglia E, Biggio G, Signorelli MS, Mencacci C (2014) Steering Committee on behalf of the
STIMA-D Investigators Italian Study on Depressive Disorders (Studio Italiano Malattia
Depressiva, or STIMA), pp. 105-10. Vol 47(3).
Munizza C, Argentero P, Coppo A, Tibaldi G, Di Giannantonio M, Picci RL, Rucci P (2013)
Public beliefs and attitudes towards depression in Italy: a national survey, PLoS One. 2013
May 20. Vol 8(5)
Furlan PM, Oliva F, Picci RL (2013) University psychiatry in Italy.Organisation and
integration of university clinics and the National Health Service, Annali Dell'istituto
Superiore Di Sanità (ISSN:0021-2571), pp. 292- 299. Vol. 49.
Picci RL, Versino E, Oliva F, Giaretto RM, Ostacoli L, Trivelli F, Venturello S, Furlan PM
(2013) Does substance use disorder affect clinical expression in first-hospitalization patients
with schizophrenia? Analysis of a prospective cohort, Psychiatry Research (ISSN:0165-
1781), pp. 780- 786. Vol. 210.
Picci RL, Vigna-Taglianti F, Oliva F, Mathis F, Salmaso S, Ostacoli L, Sodano AJ, Furlan
PM (2012) Personality disorders among patients accessing alcohol detoxification treatment:
prevalence and gender differences, Comprehensive Psychiatry (ISSN:0010-440X), pp. 355-
363. Vol. 53.
80
ROLE OF IRON METABOLISM PROTEINS IN HEMATOLOGIC
MALIGNANCIES
Dr.Marco
DE GOBBI Assistant Professor
Dr. Augusta
DI SAVINO Postdoctoral
Fellowship
Dr. Antonietta
PALMIERI Fellowship
Current Research Projects
Role of TFR2 in myeloproliferative and myelodysplastic disorders
Transcriptional regulation of TFR2 alpha and beta
Molecular basis of iron overload disorders
81
Recent Publications (2013/2014)
Palmieri A, Volpengo A, Di Savino A, Carnuccio F, Crasto F, Daraio F, Lorenzatti R, Nicoli
P, Serra A, Morotti A, Saglio G, Roetto A, De Gobbi M. Tranferrin Receptor 2 gene is highly
expressed in peripheral blood cells of patients with polycythemia vera but not with secondary
erythrocytosis. Poster presentation at European Iron Club Meeting Verona 11th-14th
September 21014
Ferbo L, Manzini P, Badar S, Campostrini N, Zamperin G, Delledonne M, Francisi T, Tassi
V, D’Antico S, Girelli D, Roetto A, De Gobbi M. A rare mutation in FPN1 gene found in a
severe iron overloaded Italian patient. Poster presentation at European Iron Club Meeting
Verona 11th-14th September 21014
82