Associate Professor

Education and Training
1999: Specialization in Food Science. University of Modena and Reggio Emilia
1996: PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology and Pathology. University of Modena
1991: Degree in Biological Sciences. University of Modena Academic Experience
2015-present Associate Professor of Physiology, University of Genoa, (DIMES)
2004-2015 University Researcher in Physiology University of Genoa, (DIMES) Scientific activity
Author of 49 works; H. index 29; total citations 2610 (Scopus)

Main research topics:
- Functional role of synapsins and protein phosphorylation in neurotransmitter release.
- Role of LRRK2 in synaptic vesicle trafficking.
- Role of PRRT2 in nerve endings.
- Role of the transcription factor REST/NRSF and in neuroinflammatory processes

Financing
006-2008: Molecular mechanisms of the effects of neurotrophins on neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity. (Research Unit Manager) MIUR - IT (PRIN 2005)
008-2010: Role of synapsins in the effects of neurotrophins in mature and developing neurons (Responsible
research unit) MIUR (PRIN 2007)
2011-2012/2013-2014/2015-2016: Impact of LRRK2 kinase activity on synaptic vesicle trafficking. (Responsible
research unit) The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research - USA
2012-2014: LRRK2 as a therapeutic target in Parkinson's disease. (Research Unit Manager) Cariplo Foundation
2012-2015: Function and dysfunction of the Parkinson's disease kinase LRRK2 at the pre-synaptic site. (Research Unit Manager) Telethon Foundation
2013-2016: Physiology and pathophysiology of BDNF towards the development of new therapeutic strategies for some of the major neuropsychiatric diseases. (Research Unit Manager) MIUR - IT (PRIN 2010-11)
Teaching activity
Physiology professor in the degree courses in: Medicine and Surgery, Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics, Nursing.