Lab Experience at the Laboratory of PLRD group – IR Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain – Matteo Marinini

I got the opportunity to do my 2nd lab rotation at  the Laboratory of PLRD group – IR Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain

PI of the laboratory: Noemi Rotllan Vila

Tutor: Raquel Griñar

The lab focuses on the pathophysiology of lipid-related diseases

My experience & learnings:

During my two-month internship at Institut de Recerca de Sant Pau, under the guidance of the members of the PLRD group, I had the chance to deepen my understanding of lipid-related diseases, particularly focusing on atherosclerosis and cholesterol transport in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).

This experience has been incredibly enriching both professionally and personally. I learned and applied new lab techniques, such as ultracentrifugation and western blots, got directly involved not only in the execution but also in the design and planning of experiments, and expanded my knowledge of the cellular mechanisms behind atherosclerosis. Working with cell cultures, human blood samples, and observing procedures involving lab mice gave me a comprehensive overview of basic and translational research in this field.

What truly made this experience special was the welcoming and collaborative atmosphere of the lab. Everyone was kind, approachable, and always willing to share their knowledge. It was a perfect environment for growth, learning, and curiosity.

Grateful for this opportunity and for the inspiring people I had the pleasure to work with!