University

ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6210-5607

Scopus Author ID: 57196345711

Ilaria Iacobucci is an Associate Professor of Biochemistry (SSD BIOS-07/A) in the Department of Life Sciences, Health, and Health Professions at Link Campus University. She earned her Master’s Degree in Chemical Sciences in 2016 and her Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences in 2021 at the University of Naples Federico II. In 2023, she attained the National Scientific Qualification to serve as an Associate Professor in the field of Biochemistry.

Her scientific work focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying human diseases, with particular attention to the role of biomolecular interactions, alterations in protein networks, and cellular regulatory processes. Her research integrates biochemical, biophysical, and proteomic approaches to identify the mechanisms involved in the onset and progression of diseases and to pinpoint potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

In the field of oncology, one of the main lines of research focuses on the identification of new molecular biomarkers in breast cancer through the study of proteins that interact with non-canonical DNA structures, particularly telomeric G-quadruplexes. The integration of proteomic, transcriptomic, and bioinformatic data allows for a deeper understanding of the biological mechanisms associated with different tumor subtypes and the identification of biomarker candidates that may be useful for the molecular characterization of the disease.

In the field of neuroscience, the research focuses on the study of molecular alterations associated with neurological and neurodegenerative disorders. Recent activities include the proteomic characterization of drug-resistant epilepsies, with particular reference to focal cortical dysplasias, including through collaborations with the IRCCS Carlo Besta Neurological Institute Foundation in Milan. Additional research activities focus on alterations in synaptic function, protein homeostasis, and cellular processes involved in nervous system disorders.

Other scientific interests include the study of the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiovascular diseases, with particular focus on extracellular matrix remodeling processes, and the characterization of interactions between proteins and bioactive compounds for the identification of drug targets and the study of the mechanisms of action of potential therapeutic agents.

She has conducted research at the University of Naples Federico II, CEINGE – “Franco Salvatore” Advanced Biotechnology, and the University of Strasbourg in France, where she furthered her study of the mechanisms of action of antimalarial compounds using chemical proteomics approaches. She has participated in research projects funded by AIRC and the Ministry of Health.

She co-authored 39 scientific publications, which have received a total of over 800 citations. She has participated in the organization, teaching, and mentoring of national and international proteomics schools, promoted as part of initiatives by the Italian Proteomics Association (ItPA) and the European Proteomics Association (EuPA). She has presented oral and poster presentations at over 20 national and international scientific conferences, receiving several awards, including the Best Oral Presentation Award at the 20th ItPA International Congress in 2026. In addition to her scientific work, she is committed to university teaching and the training of students and young researchers.
 

Curriculum Vitae

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