Laura Molezini, a PhD student in the Biotechnology Graduate Program, has been awarded a scholarship by CAPES to carry out a sandwich doctoral program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. The international experience, taking place from June to November this year, aims to deepen her research on the effects of systemic administration of the MMP-2 enzyme in mice, focusing on adipose tissue and perivascular tissue.
Under the guidance of Professor Mozart de Azevedo Marins, coordinator of the Biotechnology Graduate Program, Laura is studying how MMP-2, an enzyme essential for the adaptation and maintenance of blood vessels and the heart, helps maintain the healthy balance of organs and tissues. Her research encourages scientific discussions on new therapies aimed at preventing or reducing the risks of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension and atherosclerosis, which are among the leading causes of death worldwide.
The study also examines the relationship between the enzyme and collagen degradation in conditions associated with obesity. “These interactions are particularly relevant in metabolic diseases and have the potential to provide valuable insights for the development of new therapeutic approaches. Exploring the potential implications of these discoveries for the treatment of cardiometabolic conditions is extremely motivating,” Laura highlights.
International Experience – Working at one of the world’s most important research centers, Laura emphasizes that the sandwich doctoral program has been crucial in expanding her development as a researcher. “Being in such an innovative and challenging academic environment is shaping my scientific thinking and broadening my perspective on the impact of research. The exchange of ideas and experiences with researchers from different parts of the world has been an enriching experience, one that goes beyond technical learning and strengthens my professional trajectory,” says the PhD candidate.
The cultural exchange and contact with researchers from around the world have fascinated Laura, expanding her worldview beyond academic learning. “I am deeply grateful to the University of Ribeirão Preto for all the support it has provided. It’s incredible how academic support can open so many doors and turn dreams into reality. This experience is enriching in every aspect and will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, not only on my career as a researcher but also on my personal life,” Laura adds.
According to Professor Mozart de Azevedo Marins, coordinator of Unaerp’s Graduate Programs and the Biotechnology Graduate Program, the research conducted by the PhD candidate advances scientific inquiry and represents an opportunity to contribute to improving public health and preventing chronic diseases.
Marins also points out that the sandwich doctoral experience provides in-depth technical and scientific knowledge and establishes networks of scientific collaboration for future research projects of the PhD candidate, the Graduate Program, and Unaerp. “Furthermore, it reaffirms the excellence of the academic and professional training offered by the University to its students and reflects the advancement of the institution’s international-level research.”
