03-06-2026
SYNESIS: Unlocking the mysteries of sialylation in human disease
Mariana Barbosa, researcher at UCIBIO-NOVA in the Glycoimmunology Lab, was awarded funding for her project “SYNESIS”, which focuses on improving our understanding of how defects in sialylation, a fundamental biological process involved in cell communication, immune response, and tissue function, contribute to human disease.
Using the rare neuromuscular disorder GNE myopathy as a primary disease model, SYNESIS will investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms associated with altered sialic acid metabolism to identify novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers. Beyond its direct focus on GNE myopathy, the insights gained from SYNESIS are expected to advance the broader field of Glycoscience, shedding light on the role of sialylation in other complex conditions, such as Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation (CDG) and cancer, ultimately paving the way for personalized healthcare solutions.
"The award of the RESTART funding by FCT represents a very important step for my scientific autonomy," highlights Mariana Barbosa. "By supporting my return to scientific activity after parental leave, it gives me a vital opportunity to assert myself and establish a dedicated line of investigation within the field of Glycoscience."