FIANDRA LUISA

Luisa Fiandra is Associate Professor in Clinical Biochemistry (BIO12) at the Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences of the University of Milano Bicocca. She is the head of the Laboratory of Advanced Cell Models, where she mainly studies innovative strategies for the control of aggressive tumors (triple-negative breast cancer, PDAC), involving the cells of the tumor microenvironment. Working in close synergy with the NanoBioLab of the BtBs, these strategies include the study of tumor targeting by nanoformulations functionalized with antibodies or nucleic acids, for the reprogramming of the microenvironment cells (immune cells and CAFs) against the tumor itself. Furthermore, LF is involved in a European project aimed at the implementation of electronic microscopy systems, for the subcellular localization of nanoparticles of different nature for theranostic purposes.

Since 2017, in collaboration with NanoBioLab, he is responsible for in vivo preclinical studies mainly dedicated to the use of nanotechnologies for cancer therapy and diagnosis. These studies aim to evaluate of the nanoparticles: 1) biodistribution, pharmacokinetic properties, therapeutic effect and acute and subacute toxicity; 2) interaction with tumor cells and the microenvironment; 3) ability to cross the biological barriers.

From 2018 to 2023, LF participated in EU projects aimed at determining the toxicity of different types of nanoformulates by in vitro assays and on alternative vertebrate models (Zebrafish), in line with the Safe-by-Design concept for the development of new nanodevices.

LF is a member of the 3R Center (Interuniversity Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research), of the Nanomedicine Center “NANOMIB” of Unimib, and she is part of the Scientific Committee of the Interdepartmental Center “Health and Environmental Sustainability (POLARIS)” of Unimib.