Cell Biology
Cell biology, a field dedicated to the study of the structure, organization, and functioning of cells.
Cell Biology examines cells as the fundamental units of life, analyzing their components, metabolic processes, and communication mechanisms. The course covers everything from the organization of organelles to the processes of cell division, differentiation, and cell death, which are essential for the development and maintenance of organisms.
In addition, cell biology seeks to understand how changes in cellular processes can lead to the development of diseases, providing a foundation for advances in diagnosis, therapies, and biomedical research. It is essential to biology, medicine, and other fields of health, linking microscopic phenomena to the functions of tissues and systems.
Meet the faculty members in the Cell Biology department:
Aline Mara dos Santos
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS
Professor and Ph.D. in the Department of Structural and Functional Biology at the Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP). She was a researcher at the National Biosciences Laboratory of the National Center for Research in Energy and Materials (LNBio-CNPEM) from 2012 to 2014. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Biomedicine from the Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (2006), a Ph.D. in Sciences from the Faculty of Medical Sciences at UNICAMP (2011), and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Laboratory of Biosciences – LNBio/CNPEM (2011–2012). She served as a Senior Visiting Professor (CAPES – PrInt) at the Institut Curie – Paris (Cellular and Chemical Biology Unit) in 2024.She has experience in the field of Cell Biology, with an emphasis on Molecular and Structural Biology. She utilizes methodologies based on nonlinear and linear optics, such as SHG, FRAP, FLIM, and Super-Resolution Microscopy, as well as integrated approaches involving metabolomics and proteomics to study cellular and molecular changes induced by stress.
His primary focus is on investigating the structural, molecular, and functional changes that occur in cells and tissues subjected to stressful conditions. His work ranges from the analysis of molecular mechanisms to the functional impact in scenarios involving nutritional imbalance, oxidative stress, and genotoxic damage.
André Alexandre de Thomaz
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF MACROMOLECULES
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Physics from the State University of Campinas (2004), a Master’s degree in Physics from the State University of Campinas (2007), and a Ph.D. in Physics from the State University of Campinas (2013). In 2013–2014, I completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Institute of Photonics Applied to Cell Biology [INFABIC] under the supervision of Prof. Hernandes F. Carvalho in the area of Förster Resonant Energy Transfer [FRET]. Between 2014–2015 and 2017–2018, I conducted postdoctoral research in the U.S. at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) in Prof. Paul Selvin’s group, where I worked in the field of biological physics on the molecular study of memory formation using super-resolution microscopy [PALM/STORM]. I have conducted research in the field of biological physics, including optical tweezers techniques, multiphoton confocal microscopy, SHG/THG microscopy, FLIM microscopy, FRET microscopy, Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy [FCS], and the use of quantum dots as fluorescent markers. I am currently a professor in the Biophotonics Group and head of the Department of Quantum Electronics at the “Gleb Wataghin” Institute of Physics.
Our group uses advanced microscopy and biochemistry techniques to study the genotoxic effects of chemotherapy drugs on the heart. The heart is an organ composed of terminally differentiated cells that do not proliferate; therefore, understanding the side effects of cancer treatment on the heart is of utmost importance for patient survival.
Benedicto de Campos Vidal
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF MACROMOLECULES
He holds bachelor’s degrees in Pharmacy and Dentistry from the University of São Paulo (1953) and a Ph.D. in Oral Pathology from the State University of Campinas (1964). He completed postdoctoral studies at the University of Freiburg (Germany) (1970–1972) and the Michigan Cancer Foundation (Detroit, USA) (1985). He was a Visiting Professor at the University of Vienna (1991), the Technical University of Munich (1991 and 1992), the Autonomous University of Madrid (1992), and a Visiting Scientist at the Fox Chase Cancer Center (1997). He is currently a full professor emeritus at the State University of Campinas. He has experience in the field of Morphology, with an emphasis on the Extracellular Matrix (Collagens), working primarily on the following topics: optical anisotropies, biomedical applications of collagen, tendons, image analysis, and topochemistry. He also works in the field of Chromatin (image analysis and infrared microspectroscopy).
“The Effect of Sodium Valproate on the Development and Organization of the Extracellular Matrix in Rat Tendons”
Catarina Raposo Dias Carneiro
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
DRUG AND THERAPY DEVELOPMENT
He completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Gothenburg, Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, Sweden (2014), and earned his postdoctoral degree from the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP) (2015), a Master’s degree (2006), and a Ph.D. (2009) in Cellular and Structural Biology from UNICAMP. Since 2019, he has been a faculty member at RDIDP within the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (FCF/UNICAMP) and coordinates the Laboratory of Advanced Therapies – LATERA (FCF/UNICAMP), which focuses on developing new therapies for complex diseases (neurodegenerative and autoimmune processes, and primarily cancer). The research addresses different treatment strategies, such as pharmacological therapy, immunotherapy, cell therapy, and gene therapy, conducting preclinical and clinical trials. The development of new drugs, adjuvants, and related products derived from animal venoms is one of the main lines of investigation. She has authored 3 book chapters and 41 articles published in indexed international journals and publishers. She is the principal investigator for several projects funded by research funding agencies. She currently serves as the Extension Coordinator and Communications Advisor at FCF/UNICAMP.
Our focus has been on developing new treatments for solid tumors based on cancer biomarkers, using three main strategies: 1) development from natural sources, 2) drug repurposing, and 3) rational design. The first strategy explores biodiversity in search of new bioactive compounds, leveraging the wealth of natural substances with antitumor properties. Drug repositioning aims to find new uses for existing medications, accelerating the development of new therapies by leveraging pre-existing data. Rational design, on the other hand, involves the creation of new compounds based on detailed knowledge of the molecular mechanism of action and the structure of the therapeutic target.
Cristina Pontes Vicente
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
PLASTICITY AND CELLULAR DIFFERENTIATION
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (1986), a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences Education from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (1988), a Master’s degree in Biochemistry from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (1991), and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (1998). He is currently a Professor (MS5.1) at the State University of Campinas. He has experience in the field of Biochemistry, with an emphasis on Cell Biology, working primarily on the following topics: Endothelial stem cells, vascular regeneration, antithrombotic and anticoagulant glycosaminoglycans, atherosclerosis, and thrombosis, as well as on biology education projects in conjunction with UNICAMP’s ProfBio professional master’s program. He has coordinated the CAPES-funded PIBID Biology project at the Institute of Biology at UNICAMP since 2014
Vascular regeneration following arterial injury is currently one of the most extensively studied topics. The main cells involved in this process are endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), which are circulating cells that migrate to the site of injury and aid in the repair of the damaged endothelium. Dermatan sulfate (DS) is an antithrombotic glycosaminoglycan, and studies in our laboratory have demonstrated its role in inhibiting thrombus formation, as well as the mobilization and “homing” of EPCs to the site of arterial injury. Following arterial injury, an inflammatory process occurs, along with the induction of hypoxia and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to inappropriate vascular regeneration. Curcuma longa (CL) is an antioxidant herbal medicine that can stimulate vascular regeneration by inhibiting ROS production. Treatment with Curcuma longa and DS may reverse tissue hypoxia, thereby contributing to vascular regeneration. Based on this, this project aims to study the cellular signaling mechanisms involved in the interaction between endothelial cells (ECs), smooth muscle cells (SMCs), and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) induced by the inflammatory process and hypoxia in vitro, using treatments with DS, CL, and the role of CL in arterial thrombosis and vascular regeneration in vivo. To this end, we will analyze the role of DS and CL treatments in the proliferation, adhesion, and interaction of EPCs, ECs, and SMCs in the signaling pathways involved in apoptosis, inflammation, NO production (eNOS), and ROS production and inhibition. Following the induction of hypoxia by cobalt chloride and the induction of the inflammatory process by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). For in vivo analyses, we will determine the time to thrombosis, the presence of inflammatory and progenitor cells, the production of ROS in the vessel, and vascular regeneration, observing neointimal formation and vascular remodeling, as well as the production and reorganization of collagen in the vascular wall following arterial injury. Understanding the pathways involved in these processes can be of great assistance in understanding the mechanisms involved in the attraction, adhesion, and effective action of EPCs induced by hypoxia or the inflammatory process and treated with CL and DS in vascular remodeling following vascular injury.
Danilo Ciccone Miguel
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences (Bachelor’s and Teaching Degree) from the Institute of Biosciences and the School of Education at the University of São Paulo (2005). He completed a Direct Doctorate in Science in the field of Pathogen-Host Biology at the Institute of Biomedical Sciences at the University of São Paulo (2011), with a sandwich period at the University of Maryland – College Park, USA. He was an Associate Researcher at the University of Maryland – College Park, USA (2011–2013). In 2013, he joined the Department of Animal Biology at the Institute of Biology, UNICAMP, as an Assistant Professor. He served as a Junior Visiting Professor (CAPES – PrInt) at the Technische Universität München (TUM) in 2020. He is currently an Associate Professor at UNICAMP and a lecturer in Parasitology. He advises undergraduate and graduate students in the Animal Biology and Molecular and Morphofunctional Biology programs at IB-UNICAMP. At the Laboratory for the Study of Leishmania Infection Biology (LEBIL), he coordinates research projects on Leishmania-macrophage interaction and the activity of leishmanicidal compounds. He serves as Undergraduate Coordinator for the Bachelor’s and Teaching Degree programs in Biological Sciences at IB-UNICAMP (2024–2026).
– Development of Chemotherapy Strategies for Experimental Leishmaniasis; – Studies of Pathogen-Host Interaction
Elizabeth Bilsland
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
OMIC SCIENCES, BIOTECHNOLOGY, AND BIOINFORMATICS
He holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering (ESALQ – USP – 1995), a Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology – Göteborg University, Sweden (2004), a postdoctoral fellowship in Biochemistry at the University of Cambridge (United Kingdom – 2004 to 2015), and a professorship in Cell Biology (ESALQ/USP – 2025). She is currently a professor in the Department of Structural and Functional Biology (cell biology division) at the Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas. She founded the Synthetic Biology Laboratory (LaBS), where molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, and biochemistry are combined to search for new antimicrobials and antiparasitics and to engineer stress-resistant yeasts. LaBS uses the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and bacteria (E. coli, Bacillus, Streptomyces, and Komagataeibacter) as a platform for the discovery of new drugs and biotechnological solutions.
We conduct bioprospecting to discover new antimicrobials, followed by omics studies to identify biosynthetic pathways and guide gene editing for the production of compounds of interest. We also seek out extremophile organisms as a source of diversity for engineering resistance to inhibitors present in fermentation processes. In parallel, we develop outreach projects in synthetic biology with high school students and mentor multidisciplinary teams of Unicamp students for the international iGEM Synthetic Biology competition, in which we won gold in 2022 and 2025.
Evandro Araújo de Souza
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS
Professor and Ph.D. in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of São Paulo. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Biomedicine from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, a master’s degree in Molecular Biology from the Federal University of São Paulo (including an internship at the Max Planck Institute for Biology of Aging), and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. Postdoctoral fellow at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Marie Curie Individual Fellow). Recipient of grants from Geração FAPESP (2023), Serrapilheira (2025), and Ciência Pioneira (2025). Areas of study: Proteostasis and Biology of Aging.
We conduct research on how the nervous system and glial cells regulate proteostasis and signal stress to peripheral tissues, using the nematode C. elegans. To this end, we combine RNAi screens, fluorescence microscopy, and gene expression analysis via RNA-seq. These projects aim to identify conserved regulators of homeostasis and their impact on aging and neurodegeneration.
Flávia Cristina de Paula Freitas
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
DEVELOPMENTAL AND REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY
She is a faculty member at the Institute of Biology at UNICAMP, where she conducts research and supervises students in the fields of developmental biology, genomics, and bioinformatics. She was a Visiting Researcher in the Department of Genetics and Evolution at UFSCar (FAPESP Young Researcher Grant) and has experience as a bioinformatician at the Carlos Chagas Institute (FIOCRUZ/PR).
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from FFCLRP-USP, and a Master’s and Ph.D. in Genetics from FMRP-USP, having received FAPESP grants at every stage, including an overseas internship (BEPE) at the University of Queensland, Australia, where she implemented systems for validating miRNA–mRNA interactions and cell culture techniques for mammals and insects.
She completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Copenhagen (Science Without Borders), investigating molecular components of tumor progression in Drosophila, and a postdoctoral fellowship at USP-Ribeirão Preto, participating in the sequencing and analysis project of the genome of the native bee Frieseomelitta varia. She also served as a Visiting Professor at the Institute of Biomedical Sciences at UNIFAL-MG.
Her areas of expertise include molecular and developmental biology, genomics, microRNAs, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics applied to insects and experimental models.
I conduct research in integrative developmental genomics, focusing on the molecular basis of developmental initiation and phenotypic plasticity in eusocial bees. I investigate how the genome triggers alternative programs leading to the formation of queens or workers, integrating ATAC-seq and RNA-seq to reconstruct regulatory networks of ovarian development in Apis mellifera, Frieseomelitta varia, and Melipona quadrifasciata. This approach compares regulatory modules across species to understand the evolution of reproductive capacity and new phenomorphologies.
Guilherme Oliveira Barbosa
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
CELLULAR SIGNALING
Professor Guilherme, affiliated with the Department of Biochemistry and Tissue Biology at the Institute of Biology of the University of Campinas (UNICAMP), has a strong background in biological sciences and holds a Ph.D. in Cell and Structural Biology, both from UNICAMP. His expertise spans molecular biology, cell biology, the extracellular matrix, and cell signaling, with a focus on areas such as the extracellular matrix, morphogenesis, and cell signaling. Prof. Guilherme is skilled in advanced techniques, including RNA interference, CRISPR/Cas9, cell culture, optical microscopy, and image analysis. During his postdoctoral fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco, he specialized in the role of heparan sulfate and extracellular matrix components in cytoplasmic signaling, using the Drosophila melanogaster model organism. His research involved advanced molecular biology, in vivo imaging, and confocal microscopy. In addition to his commitment to scientific research, Prof. Guilherme is active in training new scientists and contributes to scientific and technological development in the biological sciences.
We investigated aspects of the fundamental biology of contact-mediated paracrine signaling using the transgenic model organism Drosophila melanogaster
Hernandes F. Carvalho
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
PLASTICITY AND CELLULAR DIFFERENTIATION
He holds a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the State University of Campinas (1987), a master’s degree in Cell Biology (1989), and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry (1993) from the State University of Campinas. He is currently a full professor at the State University of Campinas. He has experience in the field of Cellular and Molecular Biology, with an emphasis on the Extracellular Matrix and Prostate Biology. He served as Head of the Department of Cellular Biology at the Institute of Biology for three terms. He was coordinator of the Pharmacy Program at Unicamp (2007–2008). He served as Director of the Cell Module in the Medical School curriculum and was responsible for the Cellular and Molecular Biology courses (Biological Sciences). He was a member of the Board of Directors of the Brazilian Society of Cell Biology from 2002 to 2004 and served as President of the same society (2006–2008 and 2014–2016). He was a member of the CA-BM of the CNPq from 2006 to 2008. He served as President of the Federation of Societies of Experimental Biology (2017–2019; 2019–2021). He served as Vice President for the Biological Sciences at the Brazilian Society of Microscopy and Microanalysis from 2023 to 2025. He served as coordinator of INCT-INFABIC from 2008 to 2025. He served as Secretary General of the International Federation of Cell Biology (IFCB) from 2008 to 2022. He was a member of the CD-CNPq (2020–2024) and the SBPC’s board of directors. He is an associate editor of the journals Frontiers in Oncology and Frontiers in Cell Developmental Biology. He was elected Director of the Institute of Biology at UNICAMP for the 2022–2026 term. He was a professor at the Ilum/CNPEM School (2023–2024).
The prostate is the site of various diseases, including prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and prostate cancer. Prostate cancer will affect 12.5% of men of all ages and 50% of men aged 85. Benign prostatic hyperplasia affects a larger number of people and occurs at an earlier age. Our interest lies in understanding prostate physiology from the perspective of cellular and molecular biology, to better comprehend the behavior of this organ and its different cell types in disease. This project is divided into four subprojects, including (a) aspects of prostate development, focusing on cellular interactions occurring at the leading edge (tip) of epithelial growth, particularly the relationship between smooth muscle cell differentiation and the settlement of p63+ cells along the epithelial structure, considering the MMP system. Information on the biomechanics of epithelial development will be obtained from the analysis of smooth muscle cells and collagen fiber deposition. (b) the organ’s response to castration, particularly in characterizing gene regulatory networks capable of orchestrating tissue changes in the hypoandrogenic environment at the single-cell level, with a particular focus on the expression of collagenases (MMP-1, MMP-8, and MMP-13); (c) the inflammatory processes affecting the gland, in experimental autoimmune prostatitis and in inflammation caused by diets based on different types of fatty acids, with an emphasis on macrophages and, among them, the M1142 macrophages described by our group. This subproject includes the analysis of the gut microbiota of mice treated with different diets, seeking correlations with systemic and tissue markers of inflammation; and (d) the structure and function of the ps20 protein, expressed by prostatic smooth muscle cells, with a focus on its potential action as a serine protease inhibitor and other biological functions, such as smooth muscle cell relaxation. In each of these areas, we will seek to establish the role of different cell types and their interactions, as well as identify the molecules involved, always aiming to characterize the underlying mechanisms. In addition to epithelial and stromal cell subtypes, we will focus on identifying immune system cells, particularly macrophages, which participate in various processes, particularly in the response to castration and in experimental autoimmune prostatitis. Our approach to these topics will focus on two main methodologies: single-cell transcriptome analysis (scRNA-seq) and microscopy techniques based on nonlinear optics (SHG, FLIM, CARS). The former represents the methodological challenge of this project, while the latter is already within the expertise of the proposing team. On several fronts, we will draw on the expertise of other laboratories, such as in proteomics, metabolomics, and metagenomics. We are committed to training highly qualified personnel and disseminating the scientific data obtained, as well as technological and therapeutic advances within the scope of the project.
Luciana Bolsoni Lourenço
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
CHROMOSOMAL AND MOLECULAR EVOLUTION
Associate Professor at the Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Júlio de Mesquita Filho State University of São Paulo, a Master’s degree in Cell Biology from the State University of Campinas, a Ph.D. in Cell and Structural Biology from the State University of Campinas, and postdoctoral degrees in Zoology from UNESP-Rio Claro and in Evolution from the University of Tennessee. She has experience in the field of Cytogenomics and Anuran Evolution. Member of the Brazilian Society of Genetics and the Brazilian Society of Evolutionary Biology.
At LabEsC, our primary research focus is on studying the variation in karyotypes and specific chromosomal features, such as satellite DNA-enriched sites and nucleolar organizing regions, from an evolutionary perspective. The group’s recent research has focused on the evolution of sex chromosomes and the role of hybridization in speciation processes.
Luciana Bolsoni Lourenço
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
CHROMOSOMAL AND MOLECULAR EVOLUTION
Associate Professor at the Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Júlio de Mesquita Filho State University of São Paulo, a Master’s degree in Cell Biology from the State University of Campinas, a Ph.D. in Cell and Structural Biology from the State University of Campinas, and postdoctoral degrees in Zoology from UNESP-Rio Claro and in Evolution from the University of Tennessee. She has experience in the field of Cytogenomics and Anuran Evolution. Member of the Brazilian Society of Genetics and the Brazilian Society of Evolutionary Biology.
At LabEsC, our primary research focus is on studying the variation in karyotypes and specific chromosomal features, such as satellite DNA-enriched sites and nucleolar organizing regions, from an evolutionary perspective. The group’s recent research has focused on the evolution of sex chromosomes and the role of hybridization in speciation processes.
Marcelo Bispo de Jesus
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
OMIC SCIENCES, BIOTECHNOLOGY, AND BIOINFORMATICS
I earned my bachelor’s degree in Biology from the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP) in 2003. I then completed my master’s and doctoral degrees in Molecular and Functional Biology, also at UNICAMP, in 2006 and 2009, respectively. Later, I earned my Ph.D. from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands in 2015. In 2015, I founded the Nano-Cell Interactions Lab with funding from FAPESP’s Young Researcher Grant. Currently, the lab consists of a team of four Ph.D. students, two master’s students, and two undergraduate research students. NanoCell’s research activities focus on Biochemistry and Cell Biology, with a special emphasis on Drug and Gene Carriers. Our main areas of expertise include fluorescence microscopy, image analysis, high-content analysis, machine learning for image analysis, endocytosis, intracellular trafficking of nanoparticles, nanotoxicology (e.g., micro- and nanoplastics), and the study of lipid nanoparticles and bilamellar hydroxide as non-viral transfection systems, also known as gene delivery.
The NanoCell Interactions Lab conducts research at the intersection of cell biology, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence applied to bioimaging. Our group has distinguished itself in the creation and use of High-Content Analysis (HCA) approaches, such as Live Cell Painting (LCP)—an innovative method that uses acridine orange dye to generate phenotypic profiles in living cells, revealing subtle changes in cell morphology caused by drugs and nanoparticles. Among our current projects, we are studying the toxicity of micro- and nanoplastics in human liver models, exploring how these particles affect cellular stress pathways and metabolism. Concurrently, we apply HCA and machine learning to drug discovery and the mapping of mechanisms of action, combining automated microscopy, large-scale image analysis, and model explainability (XAI).
Marcos Jose Salvador
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
He holds a Ph.D. in Science, having completed his undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of São Paulo (USP). Since 2008, he has been a professor at the RDIDP at the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), within the Institute of Biology (IB)/Department of Plant Biology (DBV) (MS-3, PE, and PP), where he obtained the title of Lecturer and served as Associate Professor (MS-5.1 and 5.2, from 2011 to 2017), and is currently a Full Professor at UNICAMP (MS-6, appointed through competitive examination since 2016). He is a Pharmacist and also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. He participated in the creation and implementation of, and served as coordinator for, the Graduate Program (Master’s and Doctorate) titled Biosciences and Technology of Bioactive Products (PPG BTPB/IB-UNICAMP, from December 2010 to December 2014 and from December 2018 to December 2020). He served as head of the DBV-IB-UNICAMP Department (October 2, 2014, to October 1, 2016, and October 2, 2016, to October 1, 2018) and was a member of the IB Undergraduate and Graduate Committees, as well as various other committees and governing bodies at the University. He is accredited and advises master’s and doctoral students as a tenured professor in the BMM-IB-UNICAMP and CF-UNICAMP graduate programs. To date, he has advised 95 students (15 doctoral dissertations, 22 master’s theses, 47 undergraduate theses, and 11 final course projects) and supervised 7 postdocs. He conducts research in plant and symbiont metabolism, plant cell and tissue culture, and toxic and medicinal plants. He studies the chemistry and bioactivity of natural products and symbionts of the endosphere microbiome, with an emphasis on metabolomics for the search for bioactive substances/biosynthesis of isoprene and phenylpropanoid derivatives/medicinal chemistry of natural products. In his research, he conducts studies to evaluate biological, pharmacological, and toxicological activities in silico, in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo, as well as the mechanisms involved in the proposed mechanisms of action of micromolecules, natural products, medicinal plants, and toxic plants. He evaluates the biological effects of laser and LED illumination on plant development, the modulation of biosynthesis of bioactive molecules, photobiomodulation, and antimicrobial and antitumor photodynamic therapy using natural molecules with photo-induced biological effects. He is a CNPq PQ-2 fellow, has an H-index of 34, and has published 181 full-length articles, most of which list his advisees as co-authors, in addition to abstracts and book chapters. He has participated in the development of technological and innovative products, which have resulted in filed patents, and has received awards and honors. He coordinates and participates in research grant projects (FAPESP, CNPq-Universal, FAEPEX-Unicamp) involving studies of plants from different botanical families (Amaranthaceae, Asteraceae, Myrtaceae, Annonaceae, and Gesneriaceae) for the screening of bioactive compounds. He has international research experience and actively participates in international research collaboration networks. In his professional activities, he has interacted with various collaborators (foreign and Brazilian) as a co-author of scientific papers and maintains technical-scientific collaboration with researchers from international institutions (University of Florida, University of Salamanca, Université Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), Paris 6) and national institutions (UFPR, UFAM, UFS, UFOP, UFJF, UFAL, UNESP, USP, and UNICAMP). He serves as an ad hoc advisor to research funding agencies in Argentina (ANPCT-FONCYT) and Brazil (FAPESP, CNPq, CAPES, FAEPEX-Unicamp) and to various indexed scientific journals in his field published in Brazil and abroad. He is active in teaching, research, administration, extension, and the dissemination of science through interactions with society.
Conducts research on plant and animal cell culture, toxic and medicinal plants, and the metabolism of plants and symbiotic microorganisms, including biological assays (in silico, in vitro, and in vivo). Studies the chemistry and bioactivity of natural products and symbionts of the endosphere microbiome, with an emphasis on metabolomics for the search for bioactive substances, plant biology/biosynthesis of isoprene and phenylpropanoid derivatives, and medicinal chemistry of natural products. Works in the fields of bioanalytics, plant and symbiont metabolism, evaluation of biological activities and toxicity (in vitro and in vivo), applied microbiology, and biotechnology. Conducts interdisciplinary studies with plants from different plant taxa (Amaranthaceae, Asteraceae, Myrtaceae, Annonaceae, and Gesneriaceae) and their symbiotic microorganisms, plant cell and tissue culture, endophytic microorganisms, and plant microbiome technology. Secondary metabolites in plants: molecular diversity, occurrence, and uses. Antimicrobial and antitumor photodynamic therapy (PDT). Bioassays and evaluation of biological and cytotoxic activities/investigation of hypotheses regarding biological action. Pharmacological and toxicity studies in silico, in vitro, and in vivo; phytopharmaceutical technology; X-ray spectrometry analysis; and environmental analysis.
Maria Luiza Silveira Mello
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
EPIGENETICS AND GENE EXPRESSION
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Júlio de Mesquita Filho State University of São Paulo (UNESP) (1965), a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (Genetics) from the Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine – University of São Paulo (1969), and a professorship from the State University of Campinas. He completed postdoctoral research at the Michigan Cancer Foundation in Detroit (USA) (1985) and at the Technische Universität München (Germany) (1992). He is currently a Full Professor and Professor Emeritus at the State University of Campinas. He has experience in the field of Genetics, with an emphasis on Animal Genetics, and in Cell Biology, focusing primarily on the following topics: Chromatin and Epigenetics; Fibroin, type 1 collagen, and other biopolymers; Special microscopy techniques, image analysis, and infrared microspectroscopy.
The effects of valproic acid on the structural and functional aspects of chromatin and collagen bundles
Murilo de Carvalho
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
DEVELOPMENTAL AND REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY
He holds a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the University of São Paulo (2003), as well as a master’s degree (2005) and a Ph.D. (2010) in Comparative Biology. He completed a postdoctoral fellowship (2016) in Evolutionary Developmental Biology at the same institution, furthering his research into the evolutionary mechanisms of biological development. His professional career is marked by extensive experience in evolutionary developmental biology, with an emphasis on the application of multidisciplinary bioimaging techniques and the analysis of biological signals. He is a researcher at the National Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), where he coordinated the Laboratory of Biological and Neurodevelopmental Imaging (LNBio). Currently, he is part of the team at the synchrotron beamline for micro- and nano-X-ray tomography (Sirius – LNLS). His scientific interests lie in the integration of biology, physics, and imaging technology to advance knowledge about the development and organization of biological systems. He is also a collaborating researcher at UNICAMP, where he contributes to the training of new scientists by advising students in the graduate program in Molecular and Morphofunctional Biology at the Institute of Biology.
Cell, tissue, and developmental biology. Multiscale tissue architecture using 2D and 3D imaging techniques. Synchrotron radiation in the biosciences. Image analysis. Biostatistics and modeling of biological data.
Cell biology, a field dedicated to the study of the structure, organization, and functioning of cells.
Cell Biology examines cells as the fundamental units of life, analyzing their components, metabolic processes, and communication mechanisms. The course covers everything from the organization of organelles to the processes of cell division, differentiation, and cell death, which are essential for the development and maintenance of organisms.
In addition, cell biology seeks to understand how changes in cellular processes can lead to the development of diseases, providing a foundation for advances in diagnosis, therapies, and biomedical research. It is essential to biology, medicine, and other fields of health, linking microscopic phenomena to the functions of tissues and systems.
Meet the faculty members in the Cell Biology department:
Aline Mara dos Santos
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS
Professor and Ph.D. in the Department of Structural and Functional Biology at the Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP). She was a researcher at the National Biosciences Laboratory of the National Center for Research in Energy and Materials (LNBio-CNPEM) from 2012 to 2014. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Biomedicine from the Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (2006), a Ph.D. in Sciences from the Faculty of Medical Sciences at UNICAMP (2011), and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Laboratory of Biosciences – LNBio/CNPEM (2011–2012). She served as a Senior Visiting Professor (CAPES – PrInt) at the Institut Curie – Paris (Cellular and Chemical Biology Unit) in 2024.She has experience in the field of Cell Biology, with an emphasis on Molecular and Structural Biology. She utilizes methodologies based on nonlinear and linear optics, such as SHG, FRAP, FLIM, and Super-Resolution Microscopy, as well as integrated approaches involving metabolomics and proteomics to study cellular and molecular changes induced by stress.
His primary focus is on investigating the structural, molecular, and functional changes that occur in cells and tissues subjected to stressful conditions. His work ranges from the analysis of molecular mechanisms to the functional impact in scenarios involving nutritional imbalance, oxidative stress, and genotoxic damage.
André Alexandre de Thomaz
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF MACROMOLECULES
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Physics from the State University of Campinas (2004), a Master’s degree in Physics from the State University of Campinas (2007), and a Ph.D. in Physics from the State University of Campinas (2013). In 2013–2014, I completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Institute of Photonics Applied to Cell Biology [INFABIC] under the supervision of Prof. Hernandes F. Carvalho in the area of Förster Resonant Energy Transfer [FRET]. Between 2014–2015 and 2017–2018, I conducted postdoctoral research in the U.S. at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) in Prof. Paul Selvin’s group, where I worked in the field of biological physics on the molecular study of memory formation using super-resolution microscopy [PALM/STORM]. I have conducted research in the field of biological physics, including optical tweezers techniques, multiphoton confocal microscopy, SHG/THG microscopy, FLIM microscopy, FRET microscopy, Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy [FCS], and the use of quantum dots as fluorescent markers. I am currently a professor in the Biophotonics Group and head of the Department of Quantum Electronics at the “Gleb Wataghin” Institute of Physics.
Our group uses advanced microscopy and biochemistry techniques to study the genotoxic effects of chemotherapy drugs on the heart. The heart is an organ composed of terminally differentiated cells that do not proliferate; therefore, understanding the side effects of cancer treatment on the heart is of utmost importance for patient survival.
Benedicto de Campos Vidal
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF MACROMOLECULES
He holds bachelor’s degrees in Pharmacy and Dentistry from the University of São Paulo (1953) and a Ph.D. in Oral Pathology from the State University of Campinas (1964). He completed postdoctoral studies at the University of Freiburg (Germany) (1970–1972) and the Michigan Cancer Foundation (Detroit, USA) (1985). He was a Visiting Professor at the University of Vienna (1991), the Technical University of Munich (1991 and 1992), the Autonomous University of Madrid (1992), and a Visiting Scientist at the Fox Chase Cancer Center (1997). He is currently a full professor emeritus at the State University of Campinas. He has experience in the field of Morphology, with an emphasis on the Extracellular Matrix (Collagens), working primarily on the following topics: optical anisotropies, biomedical applications of collagen, tendons, image analysis, and topochemistry. He also works in the field of Chromatin (image analysis and infrared microspectroscopy).
“The Effect of Sodium Valproate on the Development and Organization of the Extracellular Matrix in Rat Tendons”
Catarina Raposo Dias Carneiro
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
DRUG AND THERAPY DEVELOPMENT
He completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Gothenburg, Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, Sweden (2014), and earned his postdoctoral degree from the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP) (2015), a Master’s degree (2006), and a Ph.D. (2009) in Cellular and Structural Biology from UNICAMP. Since 2019, he has been a faculty member at RDIDP within the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (FCF/UNICAMP) and coordinates the Laboratory of Advanced Therapies – LATERA (FCF/UNICAMP), which focuses on developing new therapies for complex diseases (neurodegenerative and autoimmune processes, and primarily cancer). The research addresses different treatment strategies, such as pharmacological therapy, immunotherapy, cell therapy, and gene therapy, conducting preclinical and clinical trials. The development of new drugs, adjuvants, and related products derived from animal venoms is one of the main lines of investigation. She has authored 3 book chapters and 41 articles published in indexed international journals and publishers. She is the principal investigator for several projects funded by research funding agencies. She currently serves as the Extension Coordinator and Communications Advisor at FCF/UNICAMP.
Our focus has been on developing new treatments for solid tumors based on cancer biomarkers, using three main strategies: 1) development from natural sources, 2) drug repurposing, and 3) rational design. The first strategy explores biodiversity in search of new bioactive compounds, leveraging the wealth of natural substances with antitumor properties. Drug repositioning aims to find new uses for existing medications, accelerating the development of new therapies by leveraging pre-existing data. Rational design, on the other hand, involves the creation of new compounds based on detailed knowledge of the molecular mechanism of action and the structure of the therapeutic target.
Cristina Pontes Vicente
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
PLASTICITY AND CELLULAR DIFFERENTIATION
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (1986), a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences Education from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (1988), a Master’s degree in Biochemistry from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (1991), and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (1998). He is currently a Professor (MS5.1) at the State University of Campinas. He has experience in the field of Biochemistry, with an emphasis on Cell Biology, working primarily on the following topics: Endothelial stem cells, vascular regeneration, antithrombotic and anticoagulant glycosaminoglycans, atherosclerosis, and thrombosis, as well as on biology education projects in conjunction with UNICAMP’s ProfBio professional master’s program. He has coordinated the CAPES-funded PIBID Biology project at the Institute of Biology at UNICAMP since 2014
Vascular regeneration following arterial injury is currently one of the most extensively studied topics. The main cells involved in this process are endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), which are circulating cells that migrate to the site of injury and aid in the repair of the damaged endothelium. Dermatan sulfate (DS) is an antithrombotic glycosaminoglycan, and studies in our laboratory have demonstrated its role in inhibiting thrombus formation, as well as the mobilization and “homing” of EPCs to the site of arterial injury. Following arterial injury, an inflammatory process occurs, along with the induction of hypoxia and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to inappropriate vascular regeneration. Curcuma longa (CL) is an antioxidant herbal medicine that can stimulate vascular regeneration by inhibiting ROS production. Treatment with Curcuma longa and DS may reverse tissue hypoxia, thereby contributing to vascular regeneration. Based on this, this project aims to study the cellular signaling mechanisms involved in the interaction between endothelial cells (ECs), smooth muscle cells (SMCs), and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) induced by the inflammatory process and hypoxia in vitro, using treatments with DS, CL, and the role of CL in arterial thrombosis and vascular regeneration in vivo. To this end, we will analyze the role of DS and CL treatments in the proliferation, adhesion, and interaction of EPCs, ECs, and SMCs in the signaling pathways involved in apoptosis, inflammation, NO production (eNOS), and ROS production and inhibition. Following the induction of hypoxia by cobalt chloride and the induction of the inflammatory process by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). For in vivo analyses, we will determine the time to thrombosis, the presence of inflammatory and progenitor cells, the production of ROS in the vessel, and vascular regeneration, observing neointimal formation and vascular remodeling, as well as the production and reorganization of collagen in the vascular wall following arterial injury. Understanding the pathways involved in these processes can be of great assistance in understanding the mechanisms involved in the attraction, adhesion, and effective action of EPCs induced by hypoxia or the inflammatory process and treated with CL and DS in vascular remodeling following vascular injury.
Danilo Ciccone Miguel
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences (Bachelor’s and Teaching Degree) from the Institute of Biosciences and the School of Education at the University of São Paulo (2005). He completed a Direct Doctorate in Science in the field of Pathogen-Host Biology at the Institute of Biomedical Sciences at the University of São Paulo (2011), with a sandwich period at the University of Maryland – College Park, USA. He was an Associate Researcher at the University of Maryland – College Park, USA (2011–2013). In 2013, he joined the Department of Animal Biology at the Institute of Biology, UNICAMP, as an Assistant Professor. He served as a Junior Visiting Professor (CAPES – PrInt) at the Technische Universität München (TUM) in 2020. He is currently an Associate Professor at UNICAMP and a lecturer in Parasitology. He advises undergraduate and graduate students in the Animal Biology and Molecular and Morphofunctional Biology programs at IB-UNICAMP. At the Laboratory for the Study of Leishmania Infection Biology (LEBIL), he coordinates research projects on Leishmania-macrophage interaction and the activity of leishmanicidal compounds. He serves as Undergraduate Coordinator for the Bachelor’s and Teaching Degree programs in Biological Sciences at IB-UNICAMP (2024–2026).
– Development of Chemotherapy Strategies for Experimental Leishmaniasis; – Studies of Pathogen-Host Interaction
Elizabeth Bilsland
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
OMIC SCIENCES, BIOTECHNOLOGY, AND BIOINFORMATICS
He holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering (ESALQ – USP – 1995), a Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology – Göteborg University, Sweden (2004), a postdoctoral fellowship in Biochemistry at the University of Cambridge (United Kingdom – 2004 to 2015), and a professorship in Cell Biology (ESALQ/USP – 2025). She is currently a professor in the Department of Structural and Functional Biology (cell biology division) at the Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas. She founded the Synthetic Biology Laboratory (LaBS), where molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, and biochemistry are combined to search for new antimicrobials and antiparasitics and to engineer stress-resistant yeasts. LaBS uses the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and bacteria (E. coli, Bacillus, Streptomyces, and Komagataeibacter) as a platform for the discovery of new drugs and biotechnological solutions.
We conduct bioprospecting to discover new antimicrobials, followed by omics studies to identify biosynthetic pathways and guide gene editing for the production of compounds of interest. We also seek out extremophile organisms as a source of diversity for engineering resistance to inhibitors present in fermentation processes. In parallel, we develop outreach projects in synthetic biology with high school students and mentor multidisciplinary teams of Unicamp students for the international iGEM Synthetic Biology competition, in which we won gold in 2022 and 2025.
Evandro Araújo de Souza
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS
Professor and Ph.D. in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of São Paulo. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Biomedicine from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, a master’s degree in Molecular Biology from the Federal University of São Paulo (including an internship at the Max Planck Institute for Biology of Aging), and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. Postdoctoral fellow at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Marie Curie Individual Fellow). Recipient of grants from Geração FAPESP (2023), Serrapilheira (2025), and Ciência Pioneira (2025). Areas of study: Proteostasis and Biology of Aging.
We conduct research on how the nervous system and glial cells regulate proteostasis and signal stress to peripheral tissues, using the nematode C. elegans. To this end, we combine RNAi screens, fluorescence microscopy, and gene expression analysis via RNA-seq. These projects aim to identify conserved regulators of homeostasis and their impact on aging and neurodegeneration.
Flávia Cristina de Paula Freitas
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
DEVELOPMENTAL AND REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY
She is a faculty member at the Institute of Biology at UNICAMP, where she conducts research and supervises students in the fields of developmental biology, genomics, and bioinformatics. She was a Visiting Researcher in the Department of Genetics and Evolution at UFSCar (FAPESP Young Researcher Grant) and has experience as a bioinformatician at the Carlos Chagas Institute (FIOCRUZ/PR).
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from FFCLRP-USP, and a Master’s and Ph.D. in Genetics from FMRP-USP, having received FAPESP grants at every stage, including an overseas internship (BEPE) at the University of Queensland, Australia, where she implemented systems for validating miRNA–mRNA interactions and cell culture techniques for mammals and insects.
She completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Copenhagen (Science Without Borders), investigating molecular components of tumor progression in Drosophila, and a postdoctoral fellowship at USP-Ribeirão Preto, participating in the sequencing and analysis project of the genome of the native bee Frieseomelitta varia. She also served as a Visiting Professor at the Institute of Biomedical Sciences at UNIFAL-MG.
Her areas of expertise include molecular and developmental biology, genomics, microRNAs, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics applied to insects and experimental models.
I conduct research in integrative developmental genomics, focusing on the molecular basis of developmental initiation and phenotypic plasticity in eusocial bees. I investigate how the genome triggers alternative programs leading to the formation of queens or workers, integrating ATAC-seq and RNA-seq to reconstruct regulatory networks of ovarian development in Apis mellifera, Frieseomelitta varia, and Melipona quadrifasciata. This approach compares regulatory modules across species to understand the evolution of reproductive capacity and new phenomorphologies.
Guilherme Oliveira Barbosa
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
CELLULAR SIGNALING
Professor Guilherme, affiliated with the Department of Biochemistry and Tissue Biology at the Institute of Biology of the University of Campinas (UNICAMP), has a strong background in biological sciences and holds a Ph.D. in Cell and Structural Biology, both from UNICAMP. His expertise spans molecular biology, cell biology, the extracellular matrix, and cell signaling, with a focus on areas such as the extracellular matrix, morphogenesis, and cell signaling. Prof. Guilherme is skilled in advanced techniques, including RNA interference, CRISPR/Cas9, cell culture, optical microscopy, and image analysis. During his postdoctoral fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco, he specialized in the role of heparan sulfate and extracellular matrix components in cytoplasmic signaling, using the Drosophila melanogaster model organism. His research involved advanced molecular biology, in vivo imaging, and confocal microscopy. In addition to his commitment to scientific research, Prof. Guilherme is active in training new scientists and contributes to scientific and technological development in the biological sciences.
We investigated aspects of the fundamental biology of contact-mediated paracrine signaling using the transgenic model organism Drosophila melanogaster
Hernandes F. Carvalho
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
PLASTICITY AND CELLULAR DIFFERENTIATION
He holds a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the State University of Campinas (1987), a master’s degree in Cell Biology (1989), and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry (1993) from the State University of Campinas. He is currently a full professor at the State University of Campinas. He has experience in the field of Cellular and Molecular Biology, with an emphasis on the Extracellular Matrix and Prostate Biology. He served as Head of the Department of Cellular Biology at the Institute of Biology for three terms. He was coordinator of the Pharmacy Program at Unicamp (2007–2008). He served as Director of the Cell Module in the Medical School curriculum and was responsible for the Cellular and Molecular Biology courses (Biological Sciences). He was a member of the Board of Directors of the Brazilian Society of Cell Biology from 2002 to 2004 and served as President of the same society (2006–2008 and 2014–2016). He was a member of the CA-BM of the CNPq from 2006 to 2008. He served as President of the Federation of Societies of Experimental Biology (2017–2019; 2019–2021). He served as Vice President for the Biological Sciences at the Brazilian Society of Microscopy and Microanalysis from 2023 to 2025. He served as coordinator of INCT-INFABIC from 2008 to 2025. He served as Secretary General of the International Federation of Cell Biology (IFCB) from 2008 to 2022. He was a member of the CD-CNPq (2020–2024) and the SBPC’s board of directors. He is an associate editor of the journals Frontiers in Oncology and Frontiers in Cell Developmental Biology. He was elected Director of the Institute of Biology at UNICAMP for the 2022–2026 term. He was a professor at the Ilum/CNPEM School (2023–2024).
The prostate is the site of various diseases, including prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and prostate cancer. Prostate cancer will affect 12.5% of men of all ages and 50% of men aged 85. Benign prostatic hyperplasia affects a larger number of people and occurs at an earlier age. Our interest lies in understanding prostate physiology from the perspective of cellular and molecular biology, to better comprehend the behavior of this organ and its different cell types in disease. This project is divided into four subprojects, including (a) aspects of prostate development, focusing on cellular interactions occurring at the leading edge (tip) of epithelial growth, particularly the relationship between smooth muscle cell differentiation and the settlement of p63+ cells along the epithelial structure, considering the MMP system. Information on the biomechanics of epithelial development will be obtained from the analysis of smooth muscle cells and collagen fiber deposition. (b) the organ’s response to castration, particularly in characterizing gene regulatory networks capable of orchestrating tissue changes in the hypoandrogenic environment at the single-cell level, with a particular focus on the expression of collagenases (MMP-1, MMP-8, and MMP-13); (c) the inflammatory processes affecting the gland, in experimental autoimmune prostatitis and in inflammation caused by diets based on different types of fatty acids, with an emphasis on macrophages and, among them, the M1142 macrophages described by our group. This subproject includes the analysis of the gut microbiota of mice treated with different diets, seeking correlations with systemic and tissue markers of inflammation; and (d) the structure and function of the ps20 protein, expressed by prostatic smooth muscle cells, with a focus on its potential action as a serine protease inhibitor and other biological functions, such as smooth muscle cell relaxation. In each of these areas, we will seek to establish the role of different cell types and their interactions, as well as identify the molecules involved, always aiming to characterize the underlying mechanisms. In addition to epithelial and stromal cell subtypes, we will focus on identifying immune system cells, particularly macrophages, which participate in various processes, particularly in the response to castration and in experimental autoimmune prostatitis. Our approach to these topics will focus on two main methodologies: single-cell transcriptome analysis (scRNA-seq) and microscopy techniques based on nonlinear optics (SHG, FLIM, CARS). The former represents the methodological challenge of this project, while the latter is already within the expertise of the proposing team. On several fronts, we will draw on the expertise of other laboratories, such as in proteomics, metabolomics, and metagenomics. We are committed to training highly qualified personnel and disseminating the scientific data obtained, as well as technological and therapeutic advances within the scope of the project.
Luciana Bolsoni Lourenço
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
CHROMOSOMAL AND MOLECULAR EVOLUTION
Associate Professor at the Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Júlio de Mesquita Filho State University of São Paulo, a Master’s degree in Cell Biology from the State University of Campinas, a Ph.D. in Cell and Structural Biology from the State University of Campinas, and postdoctoral degrees in Zoology from UNESP-Rio Claro and in Evolution from the University of Tennessee. She has experience in the field of Cytogenomics and Anuran Evolution. Member of the Brazilian Society of Genetics and the Brazilian Society of Evolutionary Biology.
At LabEsC, our primary research focus is on studying the variation in karyotypes and specific chromosomal features, such as satellite DNA-enriched sites and nucleolar organizing regions, from an evolutionary perspective. The group’s recent research has focused on the evolution of sex chromosomes and the role of hybridization in speciation processes.
Luciana Bolsoni Lourenço
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
CHROMOSOMAL AND MOLECULAR EVOLUTION
Associate Professor at the Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Júlio de Mesquita Filho State University of São Paulo, a Master’s degree in Cell Biology from the State University of Campinas, a Ph.D. in Cell and Structural Biology from the State University of Campinas, and postdoctoral degrees in Zoology from UNESP-Rio Claro and in Evolution from the University of Tennessee. She has experience in the field of Cytogenomics and Anuran Evolution. Member of the Brazilian Society of Genetics and the Brazilian Society of Evolutionary Biology.
At LabEsC, our primary research focus is on studying the variation in karyotypes and specific chromosomal features, such as satellite DNA-enriched sites and nucleolar organizing regions, from an evolutionary perspective. The group’s recent research has focused on the evolution of sex chromosomes and the role of hybridization in speciation processes.
Marcelo Bispo de Jesus
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
OMIC SCIENCES, BIOTECHNOLOGY, AND BIOINFORMATICS
I earned my bachelor’s degree in Biology from the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP) in 2003. I then completed my master’s and doctoral degrees in Molecular and Functional Biology, also at UNICAMP, in 2006 and 2009, respectively. Later, I earned my Ph.D. from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands in 2015. In 2015, I founded the Nano-Cell Interactions Lab with funding from FAPESP’s Young Researcher Grant. Currently, the lab consists of a team of four Ph.D. students, two master’s students, and two undergraduate research students. NanoCell’s research activities focus on Biochemistry and Cell Biology, with a special emphasis on Drug and Gene Carriers. Our main areas of expertise include fluorescence microscopy, image analysis, high-content analysis, machine learning for image analysis, endocytosis, intracellular trafficking of nanoparticles, nanotoxicology (e.g., micro- and nanoplastics), and the study of lipid nanoparticles and bilamellar hydroxide as non-viral transfection systems, also known as gene delivery.
The NanoCell Interactions Lab conducts research at the intersection of cell biology, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence applied to bioimaging. Our group has distinguished itself in the creation and use of High-Content Analysis (HCA) approaches, such as Live Cell Painting (LCP)—an innovative method that uses acridine orange dye to generate phenotypic profiles in living cells, revealing subtle changes in cell morphology caused by drugs and nanoparticles. Among our current projects, we are studying the toxicity of micro- and nanoplastics in human liver models, exploring how these particles affect cellular stress pathways and metabolism. Concurrently, we apply HCA and machine learning to drug discovery and the mapping of mechanisms of action, combining automated microscopy, large-scale image analysis, and model explainability (XAI).
Marcos Jose Salvador
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
He holds a Ph.D. in Science, having completed his undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of São Paulo (USP). Since 2008, he has been a professor at the RDIDP at the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), within the Institute of Biology (IB)/Department of Plant Biology (DBV) (MS-3, PE, and PP), where he obtained the title of Lecturer and served as Associate Professor (MS-5.1 and 5.2, from 2011 to 2017), and is currently a Full Professor at UNICAMP (MS-6, appointed through competitive examination since 2016). He is a Pharmacist and also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. He participated in the creation and implementation of, and served as coordinator for, the Graduate Program (Master’s and Doctorate) titled Biosciences and Technology of Bioactive Products (PPG BTPB/IB-UNICAMP, from December 2010 to December 2014 and from December 2018 to December 2020). He served as head of the DBV-IB-UNICAMP Department (October 2, 2014, to October 1, 2016, and October 2, 2016, to October 1, 2018) and was a member of the IB Undergraduate and Graduate Committees, as well as various other committees and governing bodies at the University. He is accredited and advises master’s and doctoral students as a tenured professor in the BMM-IB-UNICAMP and CF-UNICAMP graduate programs. To date, he has advised 95 students (15 doctoral dissertations, 22 master’s theses, 47 undergraduate theses, and 11 final course projects) and supervised 7 postdocs. He conducts research in plant and symbiont metabolism, plant cell and tissue culture, and toxic and medicinal plants. He studies the chemistry and bioactivity of natural products and symbionts of the endosphere microbiome, with an emphasis on metabolomics for the search for bioactive substances/biosynthesis of isoprene and phenylpropanoid derivatives/medicinal chemistry of natural products. In his research, he conducts studies to evaluate biological, pharmacological, and toxicological activities in silico, in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo, as well as the mechanisms involved in the proposed mechanisms of action of micromolecules, natural products, medicinal plants, and toxic plants. He evaluates the biological effects of laser and LED illumination on plant development, the modulation of biosynthesis of bioactive molecules, photobiomodulation, and antimicrobial and antitumor photodynamic therapy using natural molecules with photo-induced biological effects. He is a CNPq PQ-2 fellow, has an H-index of 34, and has published 181 full-length articles, most of which list his advisees as co-authors, in addition to abstracts and book chapters. He has participated in the development of technological and innovative products, which have resulted in filed patents, and has received awards and honors. He coordinates and participates in research grant projects (FAPESP, CNPq-Universal, FAEPEX-Unicamp) involving studies of plants from different botanical families (Amaranthaceae, Asteraceae, Myrtaceae, Annonaceae, and Gesneriaceae) for the screening of bioactive compounds. He has international research experience and actively participates in international research collaboration networks. In his professional activities, he has interacted with various collaborators (foreign and Brazilian) as a co-author of scientific papers and maintains technical-scientific collaboration with researchers from international institutions (University of Florida, University of Salamanca, Université Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), Paris 6) and national institutions (UFPR, UFAM, UFS, UFOP, UFJF, UFAL, UNESP, USP, and UNICAMP). He serves as an ad hoc advisor to research funding agencies in Argentina (ANPCT-FONCYT) and Brazil (FAPESP, CNPq, CAPES, FAEPEX-Unicamp) and to various indexed scientific journals in his field published in Brazil and abroad. He is active in teaching, research, administration, extension, and the dissemination of science through interactions with society.
Conducts research on plant and animal cell culture, toxic and medicinal plants, and the metabolism of plants and symbiotic microorganisms, including biological assays (in silico, in vitro, and in vivo). Studies the chemistry and bioactivity of natural products and symbionts of the endosphere microbiome, with an emphasis on metabolomics for the search for bioactive substances, plant biology/biosynthesis of isoprene and phenylpropanoid derivatives, and medicinal chemistry of natural products. Works in the fields of bioanalytics, plant and symbiont metabolism, evaluation of biological activities and toxicity (in vitro and in vivo), applied microbiology, and biotechnology. Conducts interdisciplinary studies with plants from different plant taxa (Amaranthaceae, Asteraceae, Myrtaceae, Annonaceae, and Gesneriaceae) and their symbiotic microorganisms, plant cell and tissue culture, endophytic microorganisms, and plant microbiome technology. Secondary metabolites in plants: molecular diversity, occurrence, and uses. Antimicrobial and antitumor photodynamic therapy (PDT). Bioassays and evaluation of biological and cytotoxic activities/investigation of hypotheses regarding biological action. Pharmacological and toxicity studies in silico, in vitro, and in vivo; phytopharmaceutical technology; X-ray spectrometry analysis; and environmental analysis.
Maria Luiza Silveira Mello
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
EPIGENETICS AND GENE EXPRESSION
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Júlio de Mesquita Filho State University of São Paulo (UNESP) (1965), a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (Genetics) from the Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine – University of São Paulo (1969), and a professorship from the State University of Campinas. He completed postdoctoral research at the Michigan Cancer Foundation in Detroit (USA) (1985) and at the Technische Universität München (Germany) (1992). He is currently a Full Professor and Professor Emeritus at the State University of Campinas. He has experience in the field of Genetics, with an emphasis on Animal Genetics, and in Cell Biology, focusing primarily on the following topics: Chromatin and Epigenetics; Fibroin, type 1 collagen, and other biopolymers; Special microscopy techniques, image analysis, and infrared microspectroscopy.
The effects of valproic acid on the structural and functional aspects of chromatin and collagen bundles
Murilo de Carvalho
Area of Concentration
CELL BIOLOGY
Research Area
DEVELOPMENTAL AND REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY
He holds a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the University of São Paulo (2003), as well as a master’s degree (2005) and a Ph.D. (2010) in Comparative Biology. He completed a postdoctoral fellowship (2016) in Evolutionary Developmental Biology at the same institution, furthering his research into the evolutionary mechanisms of biological development. His professional career is marked by extensive experience in evolutionary developmental biology, with an emphasis on the application of multidisciplinary bioimaging techniques and the analysis of biological signals. He is a researcher at the National Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), where he coordinated the Laboratory of Biological and Neurodevelopmental Imaging (LNBio). Currently, he is part of the team at the synchrotron beamline for micro- and nano-X-ray tomography (Sirius – LNLS). His scientific interests lie in the integration of biology, physics, and imaging technology to advance knowledge about the development and organization of biological systems. He is also a collaborating researcher at UNICAMP, where he contributes to the training of new scientists by advising students in the graduate program in Molecular and Morphofunctional Biology at the Institute of Biology.
Cell, tissue, and developmental biology. Multiscale tissue architecture using 2D and 3D imaging techniques. Synchrotron radiation in the biosciences. Image analysis. Biostatistics and modeling of biological data.