Role of the phosphoinositol kinases for heart hypertrophy and in tumor formation

The recent (2008/2009) scientific activity of the group is focused on:

1) Analysis of the function of the Pik3cg (PI3K ) gene.
The aim of the project is to identify the role of PI3K, a cytoplasmic kinase involved in signal transduction triggered by seven transmembrane receptors. Our work established a role of this enzyme in inflammation, cardiac activity and respiratory function.

2) Identification and characterization of the effects of PI3K inhibition by selective drugs.
The aim of this study is to combine genetic and pharmacological data to model PI3K inhibition and to validate its effectiveness in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. These studies in collaboration with different companies, allowed the identification of compounds able to block rheumatoid arthritis in mice.

3) Analysis of the role of the Pik3cb (PI3K ) gene.
The aim of this study is to clarify the function of PI3K, a lipid kinase that is involved downstream both seven transmembrane and tyrosine kinase receptors. Our studies revealed that inactivation of PI3K causes a mild type 2 diabetes but a reduction in the development of Erbb2-positive mammary gland cancer.