Paolo Mita, PhD

Transposable elements (TE) are sequences of DNA that are capable of moving within a host genome, and thus are often referred to as “jumping genes.” DNA transposons use a “cut and paste” mechanism to move within a host genome while retrotransposons increase their amount using a “copy and paste” process.  My research focuses on the study of the Long Interspersed Element-1 (LINE-1 or L1) retrotransposon, which is the only TE capable of autonomously "jumping" within the human genome.

I seek to advance the basic understanding of L1 retrotransposon physiology in human cells and explore its role in human diseases and processes, such as cancer, aging and wound healing. Specifically, we aim to identify and study the impact of L1 proteins, mRNA expression and activity on a variety of cellular mechanisms, including DNA damage and replication, cellular ploidy during tumor evolution, viral sensing pathways, and the deregulation of tumor suppressors and oncogenes.

To achieve these goals, we use a multidisciplinary approach that integrates genetic, microscopy, and proteomic techniques in both in vitro and in vivo mouse models. By leveraging these tools, we are mechanistically characterizing the impact of L1 on cellular physiology. This knowledge has the potential to inform the development of novel therapeutic and diagnostic approaches, thereby contributing to improved clinical outcomes.

More recently I am also involved in the development and implementation of new synthetic biology and cell engineering approaches applied to the protection and restoration of endangered bird species.