• Epilepsy
• Inflammation
• Neurodevelopmental disorders
• Brain development and ageing
• Neuroncology
• Neuromuscular diseases 

The research group led by Aronica is actively engaged in neuropathology, focusing on neuron-glia interactions in brain function and pathology, and maintains strong national and international collaborations. The group addresses four major research areas: developmental disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, neuro-oncology, and epilepsy. Their work targets three core objectives: (1) identifying novel molecular and cellular pathways of neuron-glia communication in the developing and adult brain, (2) investigating how these interactions are altered in diseases, using epilepsy as a key model, and (3) developing advanced research tools and disease models to explore these dynamics.

Epilepsy serves as a central focus of the group’s research, emphasizing the molecular and biological pathways underlying epileptogenesis in focal epilepsy and malformations of cortical development (MCD). Key contributions include identifying critical pathways involved in MCD pathogenesis and demonstrating the role of innate immune response activation in various neurological disorders. This response, driven by astrocytes and microglial cells, influences hyperexcitability and degeneration. The group’s work on non-coding RNAs, particularly microRNAs, has highlighted their role as modulators of neuroinflammation and potential biomarkers for disease

Advancements in molecular biology have furthered the understanding of drug-resistant epilepsy by identifying gene regulatory networks and molecular signatures that inform therapeutic and personalized approaches. Research on calcium signaling, mitochondrial dynamics, and mTOR hyperactivation has offered critical insights into mTOR-related epileptogenesis. Additionally, studies on impaired GABAergic regulation in interneurons derived from the medial ganglionic eminence in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex have revealed developmental abnormalities that contribute to epilepsy, intellectual disability, and autism.

Translational research is central to the group’s activities, linking basic science to clinical practice. The integration of patient-derived and genetically modified isogenic iPSC-derived neuronal lines has enabled in vitro modeling to uncover mechanisms of disease-related neuronal network dysfunction. These efforts support the development of integrated diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, advancing both research and patient care.