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The Group
Professor Manuela Ferracin and her team of the University of Bologna work closely with IRCCS S.Orsola in the field of oncology translational research. In recent years, technological developments have led to a very rapid increase in precision oncology medicine, allowing oncologists to take advantage of data developed in research laboratories. Professor Ferracin have a strong background in molecular oncology, with a specific expertise in the identification of diagnostic or prognostic gene signatures, particularly miRNA profiles on different tumor types.
Currently, the main research focus is the study of cancers of unknown origin (CUP) through the establishment of in-vitro and in-vivo CUP cancer models from different specimens: tumor biopsies, whole blood, ascites and circulating tumor cells.
Our Research
Our research focuses on uncovering the hidden players in cancer and disease. We study circulating tumor cells and non-coding RNAs to understand their roles in disease mechanisms and explore their potential as innovative therapeutic targets. By integrating fundamental discoveries with translational approaches, we aim to open new paths for scientific progress and future applications.
- Molecular characterisation of tumours with an unknown primary site: microRNA profiling to predict the site of origin; development of in vitro and in vivo models.
- Next-generation sequencing to identify drug targets in cancer samples.
Molecular characterisation of microRNAs in melanoma and their use as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers.
- Quantification of microRNAs in biological fluids and microvesicles using digital droplet PCR.
- Expression profiling of small RNAs in cancer and other human diseases using next-generation sequencing.
- Isolation, molecular characterisation and culture of circulating tumour cells.
