Vittorio DeFrancisis

Using living cells as a complex target for aptamer selection (cell-SELEX) we demonstrated the possibility to generate aptamers that inhibit key transmembrane receptors involved in cancer progression (including, EGFR, AXL, PDGFR, IR). One primary research effort in my laboratory at the CNR in Naples is currently focused on targeting multiple cancer pathways with a single multifunctional reagent. This precision medicine approach ihs expected to reduce or eliminate off-target effects, while increasing therapeutic efficacy. In addition, these multifunctional inhibitors are coupled with imaging and/or sensing capabilities to facilitate tracking of delivery and assessment of therapeutic efficacy and safety.