Carla Cannizzaro

Carla Cannizzaro is a Full Professor in the Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics at the University of Palermo's School of Medicine and Surgery. She serves as Delegate for University initiatives regarding the prevention of pathological addictions and the promotion of well-being. Her office is located in the Pharmacology department at Building 11d - AOUP Paolo Giaccone, Via del Vespro 129 Palermo.

Dr. Cannizzaro's research primarily focuses on neuroscience, pharmacology, and addiction research, with particular emphasis on:

• Cannabinoid system and its interactions with other neurotransmitter systems
• Effects of prenatal and adolescent exposure to THC and alcohol
• Neuroplasticity mechanisms in addiction and cognitive disorders
• Role of neuropeptides in addictive behaviors
• Sex-specific differences in neurobehavioral outcomes

Her publication record shows a strong developmental neuroscience focus, examining how early exposure to substances affects brain development. Recent work has explored mitochondrial function in memory processes, sex-specific effects of substance exposure, and potential therapeutic interventions like CBD. Her research employs sophisticated rodent models to investigate behavioral, molecular, and neurophysiological outcomes related to substance use disorders.

Dr. Cannizzaro has mentored numerous students through thesis supervision, as indicated by the "Edited theses" section on her profile. Her research program demonstrates consistent productivity with publications spanning from 1999 to 2025.

Her laboratory focuses on:

• Developmental windows of vulnerability to substance exposure
• Sex differences in neurobehavioral outcomes
• Molecular mechanisms underlying cognitive impairments
• Potential therapeutic interventions for substance-related deficits
• Interactions between cannabinoid and alcohol systems