Kirsi Rilla
University researcher
University of Eastern Finland
Research line: Nano
Role in project: Extracellular vesicles
I am an associate professor (docent) in cell biology and PI of a research group focused on the biology of extracellular vesicles. The focus of my team is to understand the surface properties of EVs and their interactions with the extracellular matrix and target cells, with special interest on hyaluronic acid and its main receptor, CD44. We utilize 3D cell cultures as research models to mimic body conditions. I am a leader of the cell and tissue imaging core facility, where we develop modern imaging techniques for EV research. In the Flagship, we aim to find out how the special properties of EVs could be utilized in drug targeting. Research interests: Cancer biology, extracellular matrix, hyaluronic acid, CD44, exosome, microvesicle, extracellular vesicle, imaging.