Research line 1: Therapeutic and biomarker potential of the tRNA epitranscriptome in neurodegeneration
This research aims to establish the tRNA epitranscriptome signature of conformational disorders, with a special focus on Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and evaluate its role as both a biomarker and therapeutic target. By uncovering tRNA modification dynamics, we are determining whether epitranscriptomic alterations drive AD pathogenesis, influence neurodegeneration, and correlate with disease progression.
Specifically, the tRED group is:
- Characterising the AD-tRNA epitranscriptome signature, and its impact on gene expression and disease progression;
- Uncovering the role of tRNA modifying enzymes in AD pathogenesis;
- Unraveling novel diagnostic and disease-staging biomarkers based on tRNA modifications;
- Testing therapeutic strategies targeting the tRNA epitranscriptome using gene therapy and RNA-based approached in 3D in vitro models;
- Exploring the applicability of these findings to other protein conformational pathologies.
On-going funded projects
AD-EpiMark: Exploring the tRNA epitranscriptome as a novel AD modifier
Research line 2: Identifying tRNA modifications as virulence determinants in pathogens and evaluation of tRNA modification reprogramming as an antimicrobial strategy
We are investigating how host tRNA epitranscriptome reprogramming during viral infections impacts viral replication, translation fidelity, and host immune responses. By characterizing virus-induced tRNA modification dynamics, we aim to identify host-targeted antiviral strategies and potential antimicrobial interventions.
This research line is also being expanded to other pathogens, namely fungus. We are identifying if and which tRNA modifications are correlated with fungal virulence and pathogenicity to identify novel therapeutic targets that can be explored to develop novel anti-mycotics.
Specifically, the tRED group is:
- Defining the virus-specific host tRNA epitranscriptome and uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying virus-induced tRNA epitranscriptome modulation;
- Identifying tRNA modifications as virulence determinants in different pathogens;
- Evaluating the antimicrobial potential of targeting the tRNA epitranscriptome machinery;
- Exploring the role of tRNA modifications and tRNA modifying enzymes in immune response activation and infection susceptibility.
On-going funded projects
Collaboration network
(t)RNA epitranscriptome and disease group 