Elucidate the physiological and biochemical mechanisms involved in the shell calcification processes of freshwater bivalves and in the adaptation to environmental challenges as the high hydrostatic pressure (HP). Development and integration of physiological basis for bivalves conservation decisions.

The identification and characterization of mantle cell proteins involved in the intracellular calcium binding and transport, extrapalleal fluid macromolecules involved in shell biomineralization mechanisms and identification of the tissue sites associated with active environmental calcium uptake.

Study of physiological functions of statolithes and of formation mechanisms of otoliths using these as chronological biomarkers of aquatic metal contamination. The biochemical proprieties of otoliths and shells as well as the development of analysis methodologies on their stable isotopes and trace elements used for accurate age estimation of mollusks or other groups for understanding the population dynamics.

Improvement of methodologies for freshwater bivalve larval glochidia culture and juvenile production, ex.  in  Anodonta cygnea, Anodonta anatina and other endogenous  species for conservation and repopulation purposes.  Development of interactive concepts between ecotoxicological - environmental changes and the shell  calcification processes.

Accomplish future research on new strategies and methods for evaluating the calcification mechanisms calcareous structures and their practical useful.