Own Research Lines
My research is focused on advancing transplant medicine through the identification of novel biomarkers, understanding immune regulation, and developing innovative, non-invasive diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. My work integrates immunology, molecular biology, multi-omics, artificial intelligence, and translational models to improve outcomes in liver and kidney transplantation.
1. Immune Regulation and Operational Tolerance in Organ Transplantation
Achieving clinical tolerance—long-term graft acceptance without the need for chronic immunosuppression—remains a major goal in transplantation. My group has pioneered the identification and validation of epigenetic, transcriptomic, and cellular biomarkers associated with immunological tolerance, particularly the role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and their modulation via FOXP3 methylation status.
Our research extends to the manipulation of immune cell metabolism and the study of compounds (such as selected natural products) or dietary interventions that differentially affect Treg and effector T cell (Teff) functions. The ultimate objective is to develop personalized strategies to safely minimize or withdraw immunosuppression in selected liver transplant recipients.
2. Danger Signals (DAMPs) and Innate Immunity as Predictors of Graft Quality and Outcome
We explore the critical role of Danger-Associated Molecular Patterns (DAMPs) and inflammasome activation generated during ischemia-reperfusion injury, particularly in liver grafts from brain-dead or circulatory-dead donors. Using quantitative and functional analysis of DAMPs and inflammasome components in both donor tissue and organ preservation solutions, we correlate these signals with graft inflammation, early rejection events, and short-term transplant success.
This approach provides a foundation for developing new therapeutic interventions to target these pro-inflammatory pathways and for optimizing donor organ selection and preservation protocols.
3. Non-Invasive Diagnostics: Biomarker Discovery in Organ Preservation Solution and Machine Learning Tools
Our group has pioneered the use of multi-omics analyses—proteomics, metabolomics, miRNA profiling, extracellular vesicle characterization, oxidative stress, and microbiome analyses—of organ preservation solution (OPS) collected after cold ischemia. We integrate these biomarkers with clinical data and artificial intelligence-based algorithms to develop predictive models for early acute rejection, graft dysfunction, and other adverse events. This innovative, non-invasive approach aims to enable real-time risk stratification and personalized post-transplant management.
4. Molecular Mechanisms of Post-Transplant Complications
We investigate the molecular basis of major post-transplant morbidities, including hepatic artery thrombosis and biliary tract complications. By combining transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic profiling of hepatic artery and bile duct samples from both donors and recipients, our research seeks to unveil pathophysiological pathways and identify novel therapeutic targets to reduce these life-threatening complications.
5. Host-Microbiome Interactions in Transplantation
Recognizing the pivotal role of the gut-liver axis and the liver-specific microbiome, our research explores how intestinal and hepatic dysbiosis influences immune modulation, tolerance, and the risk of rejection. Using animal models and clinical cohorts, we examine the impact of diet, and donor-recipient microbiome matching on transplant outcomes. Comprehensive metagenomic and multi-omics approaches help to define microbial signatures associated with favorable or adverse graft evolution, opening new avenues for microbiota-targeted interventions.
6. Extracellular Vesicles (Exosomes) as Effectors and Predictors in Transplantation
We are characterizing the molecular cargo of small extracellular vesicles (exosomes) released during organ procurement and cold ischemia, analyzing their impact on recipient liver tissue and post-transplant outcomes. This includes in vitro assays with different liver cell types, advanced 3D co-culture systems, and in vivo biodistribution studies, coupled with AI-driven data analysis. These findings have direct implications for improving donor organ assessment and may lead to new therapeutic strategies, such as exosome depletion or supplementation.
Translational Impact
Through close collaboration with clinical units and leveraging technological innovation—including AI-driven predictive models and user-friendly clinical interfaces—our research aims to shorten the path from bench to bedside. Our ultimate goal is to improve the health and quality of life of transplant recipients, reduce healthcare costs, and facilitate the development of precision medicine in transplantation.