Silvia Capuani

My research interests include theoretical and experimental investigation of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and Imaging of materials (confined water, porous systems, gels, macromolecules) and living systems (cells, ex-vivo tissues, in-vivo animal models, humans). Specifically, my research focuses on developing new NMR techniques and innovative NMR diagnostic approaches. Some of my research lines are currently at the stage of basic research, some others are in a transitional stage between basic research and clinical application. My main research tools are NMR related techniques, but I am also an expert of other experimental procedures, such as techniques based on x-rays, light scattering, or dielectric spectroscopy. Specific research activities: -Anomalous diffusion by means of NMR diffusion techniques: 1) disorder degree quantification in porous systems (research activity) 2) spatio-temporal anomalous diffusion in heterogeneous systems (research activity) 3) MR investigation of the human brain (research activity and translational clinical research) -MR investigations of skeletal system (spongy bone, cartilage) using multi-parametric approach: 1) conventional relaxation parameters, internal gradient and diffusion coefficient correlated to spectroscopic quantitative analysis (translational clinical research) 2) Non convention NMR technique, such as DTI or 23Na-triple-quantum (research activity) - MR investigations at high magnetic field (7T) of glioma animal model to optimize BNCT (Boron Neutron Capture Therapy) using: 1) Conventional and non conventional (DTI) techniques and Imaging and spectroscopic techniques performed on 19F nuclei to detect spatial distribution of BNCT-carriers and study their pharmacokinetics 2) other biophysical approaches together with MR strategies to improve BNCT effectiveness. -Study and Development of new MR Multi Quantum coherences approaches for 1) Materials application and investigation 2) Tissue investigation I am co-author of more than 40 publications on international journals.