Molecular and cellular physiology (E. Grasselli, L. Vergani)
- Physiology of the skin and digestive systems: evaluation of the safety and efficacy of active ingredients and finished products for cosmetic and nutraceutical applications through the use of models three-dimensional reconstructed human tissue (E. Grasselli)
- Physiology of lipid metabolism: evaluation of the bioactive properties of plant extracts from a nutraceutical, pharmacological and cosmetic point of view (regulating properties of lipid and glucose metabolism; antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory properties)
Evaluation of the bioactive properties from a nutraceutical, pharmacological and cosmetic point of view of macroalgae extracts (properties having an impact on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory properties). The research makes use of two-dimensional (cell lines) and three-dimensional (reconstructed human tissues, organoids) in vitro cellular models as an alternative to animal experimentation for humans, in compliance with the principles of the 3Rs.
The extraction of potentially bioactive substances is performed by promoting sustainable methodologies and favoring species of particular interest or species with a high growth rate, also from crops in a controlled environment, always with a view to sustainability. (V. Asnaghi, S. Scarfì)
Extraction, characterization and evaluation of the anticancer and antiviral properties of sea sponge extracts. The research activity includes studies on the sustainable production of the identified bioactive compounds.Molecular characterization of jellyfish venom and evaluation of their bioactive properties. (M. Giovine, M. Pozzolini)
Micromorphological and phytochemical characterization of vegetable by-products deriving from cultivation and processing waste of food, medicinal and ornamental plants. Evaluation of the biological activity of their extracts and/or essential oils for possible applications in organic agriculture and in the nutraceutical and cosmetic fields, also as natural preservatives (L. Cornara, P. Malaspina).
