Chemistry and Bioactivity

The Chemistry and Bioactivity group is focused on the discovery and elucidation of new chemical entities, either naturally-occurring or obtained by hemi-synthesis, as well as their biological evaluation. Among natural sources, we are particularly interested in plant and animal samples, both from terrestrial and marine origin. The group is currently working in drug discovery, namely for the treatment of cancer and diabetes, as well as inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. The group also works to identify pharmacological modulators of human disease-related proteins, for which a targeted screening approach is employed that combines yeast, human cell lines, and animal models. We look for new targeted therapies with potential application in personalized therapy.