Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Unit

The unit provides biostatistical support to the different phases of translational research in oncology starting from the genesis of the laboratory data to its interpretation in the clinical perspective through the identification and development of new methodological-statistical procedures. The activity is carried out both at institutional level, in collaboration with the experimental and clinical departments of the Institute, and with other scientific institutions in the context of national and international research projects. Currently, the main areas of research are: 

• implementation and optimization of specific algorithms for the statistical analysis of data derived from high-throughput platforms for the identification of new diagnostic, predictive and prognostic biomarkers; 
• development of innovative statistical approaches for the analytical and clinical validation of biomarkers; 
• planning and statistical analysis of studies aimed at identifying the sources of variability (i.e., pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical) involved in biomarkers determination or in instrumental-diagnostic ones; 
• statistical-methodological support for the design and optimization of in vitro and in vivo experimental models; 
• implementation of a statistical analysis procedure for identification and evaluation of molecular and/or instrumental markers in pediatric patients; 
• evaluation of new chemotherapeutic approaches in patients affected by sarcomas; 
• collaboration in drafting CEN/ISO guidelines for the pre-analytical phase for the determination of molecular-genetic markers in different biological matrices and implementation of quality controls at European level (SPIDIA e SPIDIA4P projects).