Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology Lab

Contact person: Prof.ssa Loredana Basiricò

basiri@unitus.it

The Laboratory, located in block A2 of the DAFNE Department, is equipped mainly for the preparation of mammalian cell cultures (2D and 3D), primary or continuous lines; therefore, it has all the equipment and instruments necessary for the growth of cells in vitro. For this purpose, there are 2 class II laminar flow hoods, 2 CO₂ incubators, an inverted optical microscope, and 3 centrifuges. For biomolecular analyses, there is instrumentation for the analysis of proteins and nucleic acids (RNA and DNA): spectrophotometers, PCR and qRT-PCR systems. Designed to support research activities and educational initiatives, the Laboratory represents an ideal context for carrying out internships, training placements, final papers and degree theses, where students and researchers can apply the theoretical knowledge acquired and develop practical skills.

The research activities conducted within the Laboratory are focused on:

1. the search for bioactive molecules (biopeptides) in milk and cheese with a beneficial effect on human health;
2. the evaluation of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect of biolipids (omega 3, 6 and CLA) and plant bioactive molecules to improve the health and well-being of dairy cows;
3. the study of the adaptive response of dairy cows to heat stress, a topic with a high impact on livestock production and on the sustainability of livestock farming, assessed on the basis of the modifications of gene expression and cellular functions evoked in various tissues and organs;
4. the study of the biological function of milk extracellular vesicles with the aim of their potential use as anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory agents or as resilience factors to heat stress, to enhance milk as a natural resource to be used for preventive or therapeutic purposes.