ISOF PROJECT TEAM
Project Title
Disruptive materials,technologies & approaches to unravel the role of Astrocytes in brain function and dysfunction: towards to Glial interfaces
Funds
EU-MSCA-ITN-2020-ASTROTECH (GA956325)
Years
2020-2025
Main Research Area
GOALS
ASTROTECH aims to advance our understanding of astrocytes as active regulators of brain function rather than merely supportive cells. The project focuses on the molecular mechanisms governing astrocyte function, particularly ion channels, ion dynamics, and membrane transporters. A key objective of ASTROTECH is to develop innovative technologies for the precise monitoring and modulation of astrocyte activity. These tools will enable deeper insight into astrocyte physiology and pathology while establishing new approaches to manipulate their function. Ultimately, ASTROTECH aims to develop new astrocyte-targeted therapies for acute and chronic neurological diseases.
The project is coordinated by CNR-ISOF, with CNR-IMM as project partner.
Publications & Patents
Konstantoulaki, A., Fabbri, R., Conte, G., Lazzarini, C., Benfenati, V. (2025). Astrocytes: Multiscale Molecular Targets for Glial Engineering and Interfaces. In: Benfenati, V., Maiolo, L. (eds) Glial Engineering and Glial Interfaces. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-94215-0_1
Lucarini, F. Maita, G. Conte, E. Saracino, F. Formaggio, E. Palmieri, R. Fabbri, A. Konstantoulaki, C. Lazzarini, M. Caprini, V. Benfenati, L. Maiolo, A. Convertino, Silicon Nanowire Mats Enable Advanced Bioelectrical Recordings in Primary DRG Cell Cultures. Adv. Healthcare Mater. 2025, 14, 2500379. https://doi.org/10.1002/adhm.202500379