Team RiPro: Ribosomal proteins - Dr. Penzo
Main interests
The research activity of our group aims to define the contribution of alterations in ribosomal proteins-encoding genes in the development of various human diseases. Among these, we study both hereditary diseases (such as Diamond Blackfan Anemia, or DBA), and acquired diseases, such as ovarian cancer or acute T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia.
Research project
The main research project, funded by the AIRC Foundation, is entitled “Defining the role of ribosomal alterations in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia”.
In addition to this, we are running some ancillary projects, for the characterization of the role of amplification of the RPL8 gene in ovarian cancer, and for the study of the pathogenesis of Diamond Blackfan Anemia.
We also collaborate with different Italian and European research groups, in the context of the study of alterations of ribosomes and of the protein-synthetic machinery in hereditary or acquired pathologies.
Objectives
The main research project aims to define the contribution of alterations in L5 and L10 ribosomal proteins (RPL5 and RPL10) in the development of childhood T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Secondarily, we aim to identify drugs capable of selectively acting on ribosomes that incorporate the altered proteins, thus inhibiting them in a specific way. The ultimate aim is to offer new "tailored" therapeutic options for those patients who, having mutations in RPL5 or RPL10, could benefit from them.
Current research project in CRBA: Alterations of Ribosomal Proteins in human cancer