About me
I am a dentist-scientist in molecular biology and immunology, focusing on oral pathologies. My talent for creating illustrations helps convey scientific findings visually. With a DDS, MSc, and PhD, along with clinical experience, I effectively communicate science to various audiences. My illustrations have been published in esteemed journals like Cell and JDR, including a cover issue for JDR in 2024, showcasing the fusion of art and science. I aim to make complex scientific concepts engaging, fostering a deeper appreciation for science and research. Postdoctoral research
Currently, I am developing my research as a Postdoctoral Associate in the Oral Biology Department at SUNY (Buffalo) investigating the interaction of bacteriophages with human cells and how this relationship modulates chronic diseases as periodontitis. My efforts are driven to apply and translate bioinformatics findings in wet lab methodologies.
PhD research
I earned my PhD in Immunology and Pathophysiology from the University of São Paulo, studying galectin-1's role and immune cells in chemically induced type 1 diabetes. My research developed a method to quantify diabetogenic chemicals in mice with and without the galectin-1 gene. We found that galectin-1 deletion protects mice from induced diabetes, emphasizing its significance in the disease mechanism.
Master in Science
After three years in private practice, I joined the Master's program in Cell and Molecular Biology at UFMG, focusing on immunity and signaling pathways in oral pathologies, including oral cancer. My research explored G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in tumor progression and their interactions with the tumor microenvironment, enhancing my understanding of cellular mechanisms and the relationships between cancer cells and their surroundings. This work aimed to provide insights for novel therapeutic strategies in managing oral cancer.
School of Dental Medicine
Pursuing my dental degree at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) marked my entry into health sciences. UFMG offered a dynamic environment where clinical and basic research thrived under strict scientific and ethical standards. Over five years, I balanced full-time studies with research during evenings and weekends, enhancing my critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical skills essential in health sciences. My experiences shaped my understanding of the vital link between research and clinical practice, highlighting the importance of innovation in delivering high-quality patient care.