Associate Professor

I am Associate Professor of Pharmacology leading a research group dedicated to studying voltage-gated ion channels and genetic hannelopathies, primarily affecting the brain and muscle. We employ a multidisciplinary approach that integrates electrophysiological, pharmacological, biochemical, and in silico techniques. My research focuses on uncovering the role of ion channels in human channelopathies and developing personalized
therapies for these rare conditions. Over the past years, my work has advanced the understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying disorders such as epilepsy, episodic ataxia type 1, non-dystrophic myotonias and Brugada syndrome. I have also investigated mutation-specific therapeutic strategies, leveraging newly synthesized compounds and repurposed drugs in collaboration with pharmaceutical and computational chemists. These efforts are further strengthened by long-standing partnerships with clinical centers and research groups in Italy and abroad, which are part of networks dedicated to channelopathies. These collaborations enhance the translational impact of my research, particularly in genotype-phenotype correlations and the safe repurposing of drugs for patients. My work has been supported by funding from the Ministry of Health (Bando Giovani Ricercatori 2009 and PNRR Malattie Rare 2022), Ataxia UK, MIUR, University of Bari, and contributed to MIUR-PRIN, Telethon, AFM, and other funded projects. I have authored 93 peerreviewed publications (H-index 27). I teach Pharmacology and Pharmacovigilance to undergraduate Pharmacy students at the Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro." Additionally, I am deeply engaged in
mentoring scholars, PhD students, and young researchers, supporting them through internships, thesis work, and early career development.