Giulia Santonoceto

DC5: Identification and functional analysis of new factors and regulatory mechanisms of mitochondrial antisense RNA surveillance
About me

I recently graduated with a second-cycle degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Bologna. During my studies, I completed an internship at the CRBA in Bologna, where I focused on investigating the effects of Omega-3s on molecular pathways related to colorectal cancer development. This experience provided me with valuable skills in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and cell culture techniques.

My academic journey has nurtured a deep interest in mitochondrial biology and non-coding RNA. These areas have challenged traditional molecular biology paradigms, inspiring innovative scientific approaches. Pursuing a doctoral program is the perfect opportunity for me to further explore these fascinating topics.

I am eager to collaborate with diverse individuals and institutions, as it will enhance my knowledge and enable me to contribute more effectively to the MITGEST project and future research endeavours. By embracing different perspectives, I aim to develop a comprehensive understanding of the field and make meaningful contributions.

Joining MITGEST means participating in groundbreaking research on mitochondrial dysfunction and its implications for novel therapies. Together, we can push the boundaries of scientific knowledge and make a significant impact on the field of mitochondrial research. I am excited to be part of this collaborative network and contribute to future advancements in the field.

About my project

In this project, we aim to identify new factors involved in mt-ncRNA regulation. We also aim to explore the role of PTMs in the regulation of mitochondrial antisense transcripts surveillance mechanisms. To this end, we will perform a targeted siRNA screening test to identify genes whose silencing results in the upregulation of mitochondrial antisense transcripts. We will also conduct a comprehensive mass spectrometry-based analysis of PTMs present in proteins involved in mtRNA metabolism. Subsequently, we will investigate the functional importance of identified PTMs. The proposed research project will allow to build a broader picture of proteins involved in the surveillance of mitochondrial antisense RNAs. We will also learn about potential PTMs-dependent regulation of mt-ncRNA.