Affiliation: Western University, Canada, Physiology and Pharmacology (Musculoskeletal Health Research)

Dr. Melina Bellini holds a Master’s degree in Oral Biochemistry (2013) from the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil, where she used proteomics to characterize fundamental proteins on the tooth surface that play a role in dental structure, as well as biomarkers of oral and systemic diseases.  

In 2020 she received her PhD in Physiology and Pharmacology (Musculoskeletal Health Research). Her doctoral research investigated the role of molecular pathways in joint health and osteoarthritis. Using a genetically modified mouse to evaluate the gene action in OA, her thesis focused on a gene called mitogen-inducible gene 6 (Mig-6) in the knee joint. She employed molecular and histological examination, microCT imaging, and behavioural assays to assess the initiation and progression of osteoarthritis. Her work showed that high levels of Mig-6 in cartilage accelerates OA during aging and after injury, and she concluded that Mig-6 and its pathways play an essential role in cartilage development, and presents a novel target for treating OA.

Dr. Bellini is a passionate life-long learner dedicated to improving the lives of others, with a focus on the arthritis field. She has been exceptionally well trained in basic research with a proven record of scholarly articles, presentation, and effective communication in the publication of ten articles, and has presented in more than five referred and non-referred conferences and seminars. 

In addition to her research, Dr. Bellini works to bridge the gap between science and industry to build a stronger health sciences sector in Canada by participating in and coordinating career development events that bring meaningful experience, innovative thinking, and entrepreneurism for young scientists as well as other graduate-level trainees.