Evaluation of Degradation in Charred Textiles

One of the current key research led by Dr Serafini in proteomics field investigats degradation and modifications in charred textiles from Pompeii and Greek areas. The study of charred archaeological textiles presents a unique challenge due to their extreme degradation caused by historical fires and burial conditions. This project aims to systematically analyze the degradation pathways and chemical modifications occurring in ancient charred textiles recovered from the archaeological sites of Pompeii and key Greek locations. The research employs a multi-technique approach, integrating proteomic analysis, spectroscopic techniques, and microscopy to assess the molecular transformations in textile fibers.

The research on charred textiles and their degradation is expected to yield significant advancements in the field of cultural heritage conservation. By systematically analyzing the molecular alterations that occur in proteinaceous fibers subjected to charring, this study will provide a comprehensive understanding of protein degradation mechanisms. This knowledge is crucial for improving preservation techniques and guiding restoration efforts for ancient textiles exposed to fire or extreme environmental conditions.

One of the key outcomes of Serafini’s research will be the creation of a dedicated database of degradation markers, which will serve as an essential reference tool for archaeologists, conservators, and researchers. By cataloging specific biochemical changes occurring in wool, silk, and other fibrous materials over time, this database will enhance the authentication and condition assessment of archaeological textiles, enabling more precise conservation strategies.

Moreover, the study will lead to the development of innovative, non-destructive methodologies for textile analysis. These new approaches aim to minimize sampling requirements, allowing researchers to extract valuable information about historical textiles while preserving their integrity. By integrating advanced spectroscopic techniques with proteomic analysis, Serafini’s work will establish a framework for sensitive, minimally invasive diagnostic tools, ensuring that fragile artifacts can be studied without compromising their structural stability. Ultimately, these outcomes will contribute to a more sustainable and scientifically rigorous approach to the conservation of textile heritage worldwide.

Proteomic Profiling of Fibers

Characterizing the proteomic profiles of various fibers to build a comprehensive database of different wool and silk samples. 

The aim of this project is to establish a reference database for the proteomic characterization of natural textile fibers, primarily wool and silk. This initiative addresses the need for a comprehensive molecular database to support textile authentication, conservation efforts, and historical textile research. By mapping the proteomic composition of fibers from different species, production processes, and historical periods, this project enhances our ability to trace textile origins and degradation pathways.

The development of a publicly accessible proteomic database for wool and silk fibers will be a groundbreaking achievement in the field of textile research. By systematically characterizing the protein composition of different fiber types, this resource will provide conservators, researchers, and forensic experts with a comprehensive reference tool for studying historical and archaeological textiles. This database will facilitate comparative analysis, enabling the identification of fiber origins, production techniques, and degradation processes over time.

A key outcome of this project is the identification of peptide markers for textile authentication and conservation. These biomarkers will serve as unique molecular signatures, allowing scientists to differentiate between various wool and silk types, trace their historical production methods, and assess their state of preservation. By refining proteomic methodologies, the research will contribute to more precise authentication techniques, essential for museums, collectors, and cultural institutions tasked with preserving textile artifacts.

Moreover, the project will enhance forensic methodologies for identifying historical textiles of unknown provenance. Many textiles in museum collections lack clear documentation regarding their origin or material composition. By leveraging advanced proteomic analysis, researchers will be able to reconstruct the material history of these textiles, shedding light on their geographical and temporal background. This advancement will not only aid in the conservation of cultural heritage but also provide critical insights into historical trade routes, textile manufacturing traditions, and ancient material sciences.

Dr. Serafini co-founded Sapienza’s start-up D-ART srl with Dr Alessandro Ciccola, which offers diagnostic-analytical services in cultural heritage, including material characterization, conservation state assessment, and authenticity analysis. The start-up provides comprehensive diagnostic projects in collaboration with various Sapienza partners and offers development and testing services for specific products and materials for conservation and restoration. Additionally, D-ART srl extends its multi-technical analysis services to other fields, such as agri-food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Notably, the start-up has been involved in the conservation and analysis of Raffaello Sanzio’s tapestries. 

Serafini, I., Favero, G., Curini, R., Kavich, G. M., & Cleland, T. P. (2024). Development of a Combined Protein and Dye Extraction Approach for the Analysis of Keratin-Based Textiles. Journal of Proteome Research, 23(9), 3890–3903. 

Serafini, I., Ciccola, A., Curini, R., Favero, G., Kavich, G. M., Cleland, T. P., & Solazzo, C. (2024). Revealing the Unknown: How Multi-technical Approach Can Be Crucial in Identification of Dyes and Protein in Archeological Remains. In F. Coletti, C. Margariti, V. Forte, & S. Spantidaki (Eds.), Multidisciplinary Approaches for the Investigation of Textiles and Fibres in the Archaeological Field (pp. 71–122). Springer Cham. 

Solazzo, C., Soulat, J., & Cleland, T. P. (2021). Creation of a peptide database of corneous beta-proteins of marine turtles for the identification of tortoiseshell: archaeological combs as case study. Royal Society Open Science, 8(2), 201857.

Cleland, T. P., Schroeter, E. R., & Colleary, C. (2021). Diagenetiforms: A new term to explain protein changes as a result of diagenesis in paleoproteomics. Journal of Proteomics, 230, 103992.

Cleland, T. P. (2018). Human Bone Paleoproteomics Utilizing the Single-Pot, Solid-Phase-Enhanced Sample Preparation Method to Maximize Detected Proteins and Reduce Humics. Journal of Proteome Research, 17(11), 3976–3983.