My name is Ines Martic, and I am a PhD student at the Laboratory of Cellular Senescence and Skin Biology at the Institute of Biomedical Ageing Research at Leopold-Franzens University in Innsbruck, Austria. My research investigates the impact of environmental factors, specifically ultraviolet (UV) radiation and urban particulate matter (UPM) on melanocyte function, cellular senescence, skin ageing and age-related pigmentation disorders. A key focus of my work is the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in driving senescence. Consequently, I am examining the molecular mechanisms involved in oxidative stress, DNA damage responses, redox homeostasis, mitochondrial quality control, and cellular energy metabolism. In parallel, I am investigating the impact of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) on the skin microenvironment, particularly focusing on extracellular vesicles (EVs). To study these processes, I use a variety of in vitro and 3D skin models, including co-cultures, reconstructed skin equivalents, and human skin explants. My aim is to use these models to identify new therapeutic targets for combating skin ageing and improving skin health.
COST Action Involvement and Implication: Participating in the Action has enabled me to connect with exceptional researchers across Europe, expand the scope of my project and benefit from interdisciplinary training and collaboration. I have also had the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to several COST Action deliverables.
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