PhD in TISSUE ENGINEERING AND REMODELING BIOTECHNOLOGIES FOR
BODY FUNCTION

Primo anno

Attività
Elenco dei corsi/attività 

corso/attività	ore
Applications of transmission electron microscopy in tissue remodelling of diseases Description of the biomedical applications of transmission and scanning electron microscopy with particular ragrds to ultrastuctural diagnostics in tissue remodeling of human pathologies, to the study of alterations in the subcellular components and cellular processes involved in cell death, differentiation and survival. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: NO Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
Molecular strategies aimed at enhancing Natural Killer cell-mediated immunotherapy in tissue modeling of solid cancer (MEDS-02/A-Prof.ssa Loredana Cifaldi) Current molecular strategies adopted in preclinical and clinical studies to enhance the recognition and cytotoxicity of Natural Killer cells, to design new cancer immunotherapies, will be explored during the course. The use of neutralizing monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and adoptive transfer of NK and CAR-NK cells will be addressed by focusing first on the molecular pathways involved and then on currently approved or ongoing experimental and clinical approaches. The evolution of successful NK cell therapies from the first promising results in hematopoietic malignancies and, as recently reported, also in several types of solid tumors will be exposed. In particular, how NK cells are involved in tissue modeling of cancer will be discussed. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: NO Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
Principles and Methods of Tissue Engineering (MEDS-26/D-Dott.ssa Felicia Carotenuto) Tissue engineering aims to develop procedures for the manufacture of artificial tissues to be implanted in organs affected by irreversible pathological processes for which there is no certain cure. The experience gained so far has shown that it is possible to create microstructure (scaffolds) capable of emulating the extracellular matrix. On these scaffolds, it is then possible to grow and differentiate stem cells until the creation of proto-tissues to be implanted in vivo. The course intends to transfer the experience accumulated up to now to the students called in their professional lives to treat otherwise incurable patients with these highly immovative systems. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: NO Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	6
Approaches for engineering tissue architecture in biomedical research (MEDS-02/A - Prof.ssa Camilla Palumbo) The ultimate goal of tissue engineering is to develop tissue and organ substitutes for clinical transplantation or for research purposes, for instance in the fields of drug screening and disease modeling. The main elements in tissue engineering include cells, matrices, and defined architectures. In this course, different approaches and advancements in tissue engineering will be presented and discussed. A special focus will be given to the techniques aimed at producing tissue architectures able to support controlled and complex interaction between different cell types, such as decellularized organ scaffolds, 3D-bio-printed tissues, and microfluidic-based organ-on-chip models. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: NO Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi Insegnamento	3
The Living Bridge: In Vivo Models Connecting Biology and Medicine (MEDS-26/A Dott.ssa Graziana Palmieri) In vivo research remains essential for studying disease mechanisms and evaluating new therapeutic strategies. Although alternative models have advanced, studies in living organisms are still necessary to obtain reliable translational data. This presentation will first outline the current regulatory framework, then describe the main preclinical procedures and treatments available in support of biomedical research. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: NO Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
Adverse immune reactions against implanted biomaterials and scaffolds in tissue engineering (MEDS-02/A Dott.ssa Alessandra Rufini) This course will address the main adverse immune responses that may arise following the implantation of biomaterials and scaffolds used in tissue engineering. The cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying immune recognition, chronic inflammation and possible fibrosis will be analysed, which can impair the integration and functionality of implanted constructs. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
Making the most of Fluorescence: the power of full spectra (MEDS-02/A Prof.ssa Cristiana Cairo) This teaching will highlight how leveraging the full spectral range of fluorescence can advance biomedical research. By moving beyond conventional fluorescence detection methods, full-spectrum analysis allows for more accurate separation of overlapping signals, enhanced multiplexing capabilities, and improved resolution in complex biological samples. Attendees will gain insight into how this powerful approach can be applied to technologies such as flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy to extract richer, more reliable data from their experiments. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
Role of protein-rich diet in remodeling fat and lean mass in athletes. Tissue remodeling in relation to exercise and diet. (MEDF-01/A Prof. Marco Alfonso Perrone) This course will explore the role of nutrition, especially high protein diets, in the processes of remodeling lean and fat mass in athletes. The tissue changes induced by physical exercise in relation to muscle and adipose metabolism will be analyzed, with particular attention to the interaction between nutritional and mechanical stimuli in promoting muscular hypertrophy, lipolysis and tissue regeneration. The seminar will also provide an overview of the molecular and physiological implications of such adaptations and the potential translational interest of this knowledge. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: riconducibile al progetto formativo del Dottorando insegnamento	3
Cellular and Molecular Basis of Neural Plasticity: The Role of Neurotrophins and Stem Cells (BIOS-06/A Prof.ssa Giovanna D'Arcangelo) The course will cover the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neural plasticity, with a focus on the key role of neurotrophils and stem cells in supporting regeneration and remodeling of nerve tissue. The signaling pathways involved in neuronal survival, growth and differentiation will be investigated, as well as the therapeutic potential of stem cells in neurodegenerative conditions or after nervous system lesions. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3

Secondo anno

Attività
  Elenco dei corsi/attività 

corso/attività	ore
Common biocompatible polymeric materials for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. (MEDS-26/A - Prof. Paolo Di Nardo) Review on natural and synthetic polymers for tissue engineering applications. Processing and applications of smart polymer-based scaffolds. Common polymers crosslinking and modifications for preparing scaffolds used in tissue engineering. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	6
Bioinformatics application for high throughput technologies used for tissue engineering (INFO-01/A-Dott. Davide Chicco)The course will focus on the bioinformatics application for examining how to design an appropriate study, including how to deal with data and address specific clinical questions. High throughput technologies can generate a vast amount of raw data, making bioinformatics methodologies essential in their use for basic biomedical and clinical applications in tissue engineering and remodeling. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
Mechanobiology in Medicine (BIOS-07/A - Prof.ssa Magda Gioia) Mechanobiology, an interdisciplinary field, explores how cells perceive and respond to mechanical signals, governing essential biological processes such as development, proliferation, remodeling, and migration. Mechanobiology stands as a cornerstone discipline at the convergence of science, engineering, and medicine. This seminar series aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the rapidly evolving field of mechanobiology, offering participants the latest insights and developments. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
The molecular basis of musculoskeletal disorders related to aging and disuse (MEDF-01/A - Dott.ssa Ida Cariati) Musculoskeletal disorders linked to aging and disuse stem from complex molecular changes within the body. Over time, a decline in cellular function and an imbalance in regulatory pathways contribute to the deterioration of muscles, bones, and connective tissues. Disuse exacerbates these effects, leading to muscle atrophy, bone loss, and impaired tissue repair mechanisms. Understanding the intricate molecular pathways involved is crucial for developing targeted interventions to mitigate the impact of aging and disuse on musculoskeletal health. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
Targeting Iron Metabolism in Cancer: From Mechanisms to Therapeutics (BIOS-07/A - Prof.ssa Chiara Ciaccio).The course will explore the central role of iron metabolism in cancer processes, analysing how altered iron homeostasis contributes to the proliferation, survival and progression of neoplastic cells. The molecular mechanisms regulating iron absorption, use and storage in the cancer context will be discussed, as well as the latest therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating these metabolic pathways. The potential translational impact of these approaches will also be discussed, with particular reference to innovative and personalised oncology therapies. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi Insegnamenmto	3
Translational tissue engineering using organoid-based models to study Immune checkpoint inhibition in the tumor microenvironment (BIOS-11/A - Prof.ssa Ornella Franzese). The course will present the use of organoid-derived models as advanced platforms for studying the interaction between the immune system and the tumor microenvironment, with a particular focus on the mechanisms of inhibition of immune checkpoints. Tissue translational engineering approaches to in vitro re-create complex three-dimensional models mimicking the structural and functional characteristics of human cancer tissues will be discussed. The aim is to better understand cancer immune responses and optimise immunotherapy strategies, promoting innovation in personalised medicine. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
Permanent teeth derived stem cells cultures: typing, differentiation potential and evaluation of dental materials biocompatibility (MEDS-18/A - Prof. Antonio Libonati). The course will discuss the characteristics of cell cultures derived from permanent teeth, focusing on the phenotypic identification of stem cells, their differentiating potential and the use of these models to assess the biocompatibility of dental materials. Protocols for the isolation and characterisation of dental mesenchymal stem cells and possible applications in regenerative dentistry and tissue engineering will be explored. In vitro studies will also be presented to test the interaction between innovative materials and cells, with a view to developing safer and more effective devices. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3

Terzo anno

Attività
Elenco dei corsi/attività 

corso/attività	ore
Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine in Europe. (MEDS-19/B -Prof. Calogero Foti) The course will discuss biomedical research, the biological processes, the causes of diseases, their biomedical diagnosis, the evaluation of their outcomes on functioning, disability, and health, and the effects of health intervention at an individual and societal level. The course will focus on aspects of translational medical research, research and development, implementation research and clinical impact research in the field of physical and rehabilitation medicine. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
Clinical Application of Adipose Derived Stem Cells for the Treatment of musculoskeletal disorders (MEDS-19/A -Dott. Giuseppe Rovere). The seminar will address the therapeutic potential of adipose tissue derived stem cells (ADSCs) in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. The biological characteristics of ADSCs, their regenerative and immunomodulatory capacity, and how they are isolated and used clinically will be discussed. Will be discussed application cases and clinical trials concerning joint, tendon and muscle pathologies, highlighting the opportunities and criticalities related to the translation of these therapies in orthopedic and rehabilitation. The course will offer an integrated perspective between pre-clinical research and clinical application. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: sanitaria Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
The Evolving Role of Technology in β-Cell Function and Diabetes Management (MEDS-08/A - Dott.ssa Aikaterini Andreadi). The integration of technology in diabetes care has significantly advanced disease management, especially through telemedicine and the use of wearable devices that monitor biological parameters in real time. Among these, closed-loop insulin delivery systems—also known as artificial pancreas systems—represent a major breakthrough. By continuously monitoring glucose levels and automatically adjusting insulin delivery, these systems help maintain near-physiological glycemic control and reduce β-cell stress, potentially slowing disease progression. However, beyond glycemic management, current research is increasingly focusing on the regeneration and preservation of pancreatic islet function. Innovations in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine aim to restore or replace damaged β-cells, offering hope for more definitive therapeutic approaches. In this context, technological advancements not only improve current diabetes care but also provide critical tools and models for investigating the mechanisms underlying β-cell dysfunction and for testing novel regenerative strategies. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
Therapeutic application of polyphenol-based scaffolds in tissue engineering (MEDS-02/A - Prof.ssa Monica Benvenuto) In tissue engineering, polyphenols promote cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, thus aiding in the formation of functional tissues. Additionally, they offer excellent biocompatibility and mechanical strength, essential in designing scaffolds. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
System Science and artificial intelligence: Importance of tools as big data and in silico research (MEDS-26/A - Prof.ssa Laura Teodori) This course will explore the growing role of system science and artificial intelligence in biomedical research, highlighting the transformative power of tools like big data and in silico approaches. Open-access repositories and large-scale datasets now enable unprecedented insights into disease mechanisms, supporting a new scientific paradigm rooted in systems biology. Topics will include the omics-based signatures of diseases, the complexity of cell signaling and epigenetic regulation, and how AI-driven models are reshaping our ability to analyze, predict, and simulate biological processes. Together, these tools mark a shift toward more integrative and predictive biomedical research. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	6
Animal model in tissue remodeling (MEDS-02/A - Prof.ssa Chiara Focaccetti) The course will focus on the knowledge of criteria for the selection of the most appropriate animal model for tissue engineering for a given disease. This knowledge requires in-depth analysis of specific species and breeds to ascertain the adequacy of the model and outcome measures that closely mirror the clinical situation. Naturally occurring, or spontaneous disease in large animals remains a largely untapped resource, and given the similarities in pathophysiology to humans they not only allow for studying new treatment strategies but also disease etiology and prevention. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	6
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS): principi, tecnologie e applicazioni multidisciplinari (MEDS-02/B - Prof.ssa Cristina Cifaldi) The course will provide an overview of the basic principles and key technologies underlying New Generation Sequencing (NGS), illustrating its operation, evolution and potential. Multidisciplinary applications of this methodology will be presented, ranging from biomedical research to clinical diagnostics, from cancer genomics to personalised medicine. The criteria for choosing different platforms, bioinformatics challenges and data interpretation issues will also be discussed, highlighting the central role of NGS in translational research. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3
Drugs discovery and delivery for tissue remodeling and engineering in human diseases (MEDS-02/A - Prof.ssa Valeria Lucarini) The course will explore innovative strategies for the discovery and targeted release of drugs in tissue remodeling and tissue engineering, with applications in human diseases. Processes for the identification of new bioactive compounds and advanced drug delivery technologies, such as nanoparticles, hydrogels and functionalised scaffolds, which modulate tissue response and promote regeneration will be analysed. Examples of application in chronic or degenerative diseases will also be discussed, highlighting the translational potential of these strategies in regenerative medicine. Tipologia: altro Tipo corso: nazionale Macrosettore: altro Area: scientifica Elevata formazione: NO Verifica finale: SI Lingua: ITALIANO/INGLESE Modalità: entrambi i casi insegnamento	3