Currently, I'm studying genes important for the regulation and determination of immune response. My PhD work is focused on the evolution of interleukins, which are proteins critical for the induction of immune responses, cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Specifically, I am interested in the evolution of these proteins in Lagomorphs. Despite being well characterized in various mammalian groups, the knowledge on the genetic structure of interleukins is limited.

Furthermore, and since interleukins are also associated with host resistance to pathogens, is my goal to understand its relationship with two diseases affecting the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) - rabbit hemorrhagic disease and Myxomatosis. The study and comparison of interleukins’ genes between affected and non-affected animals might allow to unravel the intriguing mechanism of host-pathogen evolution.