Dr. Mengjia Lau | insect physiology | Best Researcher Award

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Cristina Agliardi embarked on her academic journey at the University of Milan, where she obtained a Master’s degree in Biotechnology in 2003. Her passion for molecular medicine and biotechnology guided her to pursue a PhD in Molecular Medicine at the same university, which she completed in 2008. During her doctoral studies, she honed her skills in advanced laboratory techniques such as DNA/RNA isolation, SNP genotyping, PCR, DNA sequencing, and Western blotting. These foundational skills set the stage for her future research endeavors in the field of neurodegenerative diseases.

Professional Endeavors 🔬

In 2011, Cristina became a permanent researcher at the Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotechnology (LAMMB), a part of Fondazione Don C Gnocchi ONLUS, IRCCS S. Maria Nascente in Milan. Here, she focused on genetics and epigenetics applied to neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and Multiple sclerosis. Her work primarily involved isolating and studying brain-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs), which serve as carriers of specific molecular biomarkers for disease progression and rehabilitation outcomes.

Before her permanent position, Cristina served as a Post-Doc researcher at LAMMB from 2008 to 2011 and as a Junior Researcher from 2003 to 2005. Her research activities during these periods were centered around understanding the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases.

Contributions and Research Focus 🧠

Cristina’s research has made significant strides in the field of molecular biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases. She has extensively studied brain-derived EVs, focusing on their potential as diagnostic and prognostic tools. One of her notable studies involved investigating the concentration of P2X7R in oligodendrocyte-derived EVs of Multiple sclerosis patients, which was published in Neurobiology of Disease in 2024.

Her contributions also extend to exploring the role of extracellular vesicles as biomarkers for Parkinson’s disease and their potential for clinical translation. She has co-authored numerous influential publications, including studies on the effects of rehabilitation treatments for overweight diabetic patients with cardiovascular disease and the role of SNAP-25 in Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Cristina’s research excellence is reflected in her impressive publication track record and her Scopus H-index of 23. She has been the principal investigator of various projects funded by the Italian Ministry of Health’s Ricerca Corrente, showcasing her leadership and expertise in molecular medicine. Her work has garnered significant attention in the scientific community, with numerous citations and collaborations with prominent researchers.

Her publication “Increased concentrations of P2X7R in oligodendrocyte-derived extracellular vesicles of Multiple sclerosis patients” and several others in high-impact journals highlight her pivotal role in advancing our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Cristina’s research has profound implications for the diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. By identifying molecular biomarkers in brain-derived EVs, her work paves the way for earlier and more accurate diagnosis, as well as personalized treatment strategies for patients with Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and Multiple sclerosis. Her studies on the genetic factors influencing rehabilitation outcomes in Multiple sclerosis patients have provided valuable insights into personalized medicine and patient care.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Looking ahead, Cristina aims to further explore the therapeutic potential of extracellular vesicles in neurodegenerative diseases. Her future research will likely focus on translating her findings into clinical applications, potentially leading to new diagnostic tools and treatment options. Her commitment to advancing molecular medicine and biotechnology ensures that her legacy will be one of innovation and impactful scientific contributions.

Cristina Agliardi’s work stands at the forefront of neurodegenerative disease research, offering hope and new possibilities for patients and healthcare providers. Her dedication to uncovering the molecular underpinnings of these complex diseases continues to inspire and influence the scientific community, promising a future where neurodegenerative diseases are better understood and more effectively managed.

📚 Publications