Meet the Scientist - Mara Tornincasa (Axxam)
Mara Tornincasa, Ph.D.
Scientist, Compound Profiling Unit
Hit Tailoring Solutions
Axxam SpA
Openzone – Via Meucci 3
Bresso, Italy
Can you explain your research within PHAGO in 2 sentences?
My research for Phago is focalized on drug discovery program to test and identify small molecules active on target TREM2. My goal is to understand if they could act on TREM2 as agonists or positive allosteric modulators.
What do your friends and family think what you are doing in the lab?
My friends think that my job is very rewarding while my family thinks I'm always stressed.
What are you really doing? (What’s your favourite task to do in the lab?)
I’m working on an innovative project. Actually, my favourite task is to optimize new protocols to improve the performance of compounds testing. The aim is to identify the best molecules based on the structure and the activity of compounds.
Why are you interested in Alzheimer’s Disease?
My interest is strong for neurodegenerative disease as Alzheimer based on my previous experience in neurodegenerative field and for my scientific training.
What is the major challenge in Alzheimer research for you?
Specific challenges faced by those with younger-onset Alzheimer's.
Trem2 or CD33?
Trem2
Coffee or Tea?
Coffee
Why does your research matter to the average citizen/man on the street?
Alzheimer is a neurodegenerative disorder with a strong impact on the society and there are some cases with early onset.
The must-follow science twitter account?
I don’t have a twitter account
The must-read article on Alzheimer research?
"TREM2 in Alzheimer’s Disease: Microglial Survival and Energy Metabolism.” (Front Aging Neurosci. 2018 Nov 23;10:395)
What else do you like to read (except research articles)?
I like to read novels and comedies.
Your most surprising research finding?
My most surprising research was the identification of a gene involved in neurodegeneration, in particular in cerebellar ataxia.
What is your personal highlight in PHAGO up to now?
Identification of a specific TREM2 agonist by screening of Prestwick library.
What’s your favourite thing to do outside the lab?
I like to hear music, go to concert and go to gym.
Best recent TV series/movie/novel depicting scientists?
It’s not recent TV series...Grey’s Anatomy.
