LIPID-PROTEIN INTERACTIONS IN AUTOPHAGY:
Our group studies the molecular interactions between membrane lipids and autophagic proteins, particularly in the early stages of autophagy, such as autophagosome formation and elongation. We use minimal functional systems with purified lipids and human Atg proteins to gain a detailed mechanistic understanding of this process. Additionally, we perform cell culture assays to validate our findings in a biological context. Our research aims to unravel how these interactions contribute to mitochondrial quality control and the balance between cell survival and death. Our research objectives include:

• Lipid-protein interactions in mitochondrial membranes: Investigating the interaction between cardiolipin and human Atg8 family proteins to explore the role of each ortholog during mitophagy.
• Impact of lipid remodeling on the autophagic process: Exploring the role of sphingolipids (particularly ceramide) in different stages of autophagy.

Our methodological approach is multidisciplinary, combining biophysical, cellular biology, and nanotechnological techniques.