Projects 2024-2025

FRAIR

FRAIR a project of the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, stands for "Fragments Recombinant AntI RNA" and is focused on the development of RNA-based drugs. Currently, RNA therapy is limited by the difficulty of delivering adequate amounts of drugs to the cytosol and nucleus, where target molecules are located. This project aims to develop molecular systems that facilitate the release of these drugs outside the endosomal system.

The goal is to obtain recombinant antibodies capable of binding to RNA drugs and visualizing their intracellular pathways. Antibodies isolated from a library of human Fabs expressed on filamentous phages will be selected based on their affinity for nucleotides used in RNA therapy. The selected antibodies will be characterized and validated, providing ligands for the recognition of RNA drugs, useful for intracellular visualization and alternative delivery strategies.

The project started in July 2024 and can be completed within 18 months.

GENESIS:  an INF-ACT project  stands for "Unraveling the Molecular and Immunologic Mechanisms of Intrahost Persistence in Emerging and Re-Emerging Arboviral Infections"

Arboviruses like Chikungunya (CHIKV), dengue (DENV), West Nile (WNV), and Zika (ZIKV) pose a global health threat, exacerbated by climate change and trade. ZIKV, associated with congenital microcephaly, can cross the blood-placental barrier and persist in semen. CHIKV, DENV, and WNV may remain in tissues post-acute phase. The persistence mechanisms of these viruses in humans are not well understood. GENESIS aims to investigate these mechanisms, focusing on viral replication, host interactions, and potential therapeutic targets. The consortium will facilitate data sharing and outreach to enhance strategies for prevention and control in line with the INF-ACT research program.

The project started in July 2024 and can be completed within 18 months