Paola Tognini Lab
We are a neuroscience laboratory dedicated to understanding the mechanisms of brain-body communication in physiological and pathological conditions (i.e. Neurodevelopmental disorders). Our research aims at unraveling the role of the gut microbiota and nutrition in modulating brain plasticity.
Research Focus
Our research focuses on understanding the complex interactions between the gut microbiota and the brain. We employ a variety of techniques including molecular biology, imaging and behavior analysis to investigate the mechanisms underlying these interactions. We are particularly interested in the role of the gut microbiota in experience-dependent plasticity, and how this can be modulated by diet and lifestyle changes. Our ultimate aim is to develop novel therapies for a range of neurological disorders.
News and Events
New Article is out in Scientific Reports!
March 28th 2024: We are delighted to share our new paper on the characterization of the gut microbiota in patients with CDKL5 deficiency disorder. We aim to contribute a valuable piece to the puzzle of this Neurodevelopmental disorder, which currently lacks a cure.
Congrats to Sara Cornuti for her EBBS award to attend FENS 2024!
We are thrilled to announce that on January 31st 2024 Sara Cornuti received the EBBS Young Investigator Award! This sponsor will allow her to attend FENS meeting 2024 in Vienna. Don't forget to stop by at Sara's poster and give her some feedback on new exciting data. Abstract title: "The Impact of High Fat Diet on Microglial Cells and Social Behavior in Mice: Implications for Diet-Induced Changes in Brain Function"
Best presentation award to Francesca Damiani
We are thrilled to announce that the PhD student Francesca Damiani was awarded "The Best presentation" at the "PhD DAY" of Scuola Normale Superiore (10-12 January 2024, Pisa, Italy). Congrats to France, who was alittle bit shocked by the news!!
​
​
Congrats to Francesca Damiani!!!
Francesca was awarded the Best Short Oral Presentation in the meeting "Targeting the Microbiota 2023", Venice, Italy, October 17-19.
Read the full news at: https://www.microbiota-site.com/congress-news/1258-groundbreaking-talk-on-microbiota-manipulation-for-cdkl5-deficiency-disorder-wins-best-short-oral-presentation-at-targeting-microbiota-2023.html
The lab is moving to Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna!
On January 10th 2024, I officially sealed the deal by signing my contract with Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna in Pisa, Italy. This marks a thrilling advancement in my career, and I couldn't be more excited! I want to express my gratitude to the University of Pisa and all my incredible colleagues for their unwavering support over the past four years. While I cherish the experiences and connections I've made, I'm eagerly embracing this new chapter and all the adventures it holds!
The lab will be part of the Interdisciplinary Center of Health Science.
November 16th 2023: Kick off Meeting with Telethon and CDKL5 Insieme Verso la Cura Family Association
We are pleased to announce our collaboration with Prof. Aglaia Vignoli and Prof. Elisa Borghi (University of Milan) on a new Seed Telethon Grant. We thanks Telethon Foundation and CDKL5 Insieme Verso la Cura, the Italian Family Association for trusting our research and giving us the possibility to further expand it!
​
September 21-22, 2023: CDKL5 Asia meeting - “For the Advancement of Understanding and Treatment of CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder”
I had the honor of presenting our research at the 2nd CDKL5 Asia Meeting. It is truly wonderful to be part of the CDD community and collaborate with families to bring hope to patients worldwide.
For details: https://drive.google.com/file/d/16n4vY4SorWxxqmSyh8Tiq9oWMZ8yB85l/view