Funder: Rosetrees
Dates: 2026 – 2027
Team: Dr Lucia Lombardi (Queen’s University Belfast), Francesco Tammaro (University of Naples), Prof Paolo Grieco (University of Naples), Prof Wafa Al-Jamal (Queen’s University Belfast), Dr Maria Lombardi (Italian Institute of Technology)
Abstract: The project focuses on natural micropeptides that have recently been shown to slow the growth of triple-negative breast cancer cells. We will also test ways to help the original peptides and their fragments enter cancer cells more effectively and examine where they go once inside.
Funder: Royal Society
Dates: 2026 – 2028
Team: Dr Lucia Lombardi (Queen’s University Belfast), Dr Maria Lombardi (Italian Institute of Technology)
Abstract: The collaboration aims to improve our understanding of how naturally occurring peptides engage with barrier systems involved in gut–brain communication, while building new links between experimental peptide science and AI-based image analysis.
Funder: Sabanci University
Dates: 2026 – 2027
Team: Dr Öznur Taştan (Sabanci University), Prof Daryl Williams (Imperial College London), Dr Lucia Lombardi (Imperial College London), Dr Nur Mustafaoğlu (Sabanci University)
Abstract: This collaborative project focuses on identifying short peptide candidates that may act as blood–brain barrier shuttles in human-relevant models. It combines AI-guided peptide prioritisation, peptide synthesis and experimental validation to connect computational prediction with laboratory testing.
Funder: NI Department for the Economy
Dates: 2026 – 2029
Team: Dr Lucia Lombardi (Queen’s University Belfast), Dr Paulina Quintanilla (University College London), Dr Sophie Morse (Imperial College London), Dr Yuval Elani (Imperial College London)
Abstract: This project explores endogenous peptide-inspired approaches for brain-targeted therapeutics and drug delivery. It will examine peptide stability, biological compatibility and interactions with brain-relevant barrier systems.