Specialization
Aging biology; NAD+ and mitochondrial metabolism; translational research; cross-species models (cells, mice, nematodes, human data)
Focus of research
I am a molecular biologist with expertise in aging, protein homeostasis, NAD+ metabolism, and mitochondria. By combining this expertise with a strong translational standpoint, I have made critical discoveries in the fields of NAD+ metabolism and aging. The overall focus of my current research is to uncover how mitochondrial homeostasis and NAD+ metabolism are linked to proteostasis and how they impact the aging process. The discoveries that will emerge will pave the way towards connecting biological hallmarks of aging and chronic diseases (NAD+, mitochondria, proteostasis) rather than considering them as separate events. Understanding the interconnection between these processes will lead to the discovery of novel therapeutic targets, and the identification or repurposing of natural compounds or drugs to accelerate clinical development. Examples of the impact and significance of my research include my postdoctoral and recent publications on the translational potential of NAD+ modulators for age-associated diseases, which has contributed to accelerate clinical testing of natural NAD+ precursors, and the discovery of a novel NAD+ modulator which resulted in a high impact publication last year, and broad interest from the international scientific community, public and private sector. My research will therefore have relevance on i) a scientific level, expanding the basic knowledge of NAD+ metabolism, mitochondrial biology, cellular proteostasis and aging mechanisms; ii) and on a societal level, possibly translating this insight into therapies to treat or ameliorate age-associated conditions and promote healthy longevity.