Metals in Biology and Redox Homeostasis

Inorganic complexes are powerful tools for biological applications, both as metallodrugs and metalloprobes. Our research bridges coordination chemistry and cell biology, translating molecules designed at the bench into functional tools in living cells and animals. We exploit tailor-made metal complexes for therapeutic purposes and as probes, with a strong focus on oxidative stress.

We develop metalloenzyme mimics with antioxidant activity and investigate their behavior in biological environments, primarily in human cell models relevant to diverse pathological conditions. In parallel, we design metal-based systems as probes for unconventional imaging modalities, such as infrared and X-ray fluorescence.

Our work addresses redox homeostasis and its link with endogenous metal ions through the development of methods and biological tools to image and quantify hydrogen peroxide and metal ions, with applications in inflammation, oxidative stress induced by drugs, tissue regeneration and morphogenesis.

Our credo motto: “Simul and singulis” — being together and remaining ourselves — reflects our collaborative and interdisciplinary approach.