Elena Cattaneo

Elena Cattaneo is a Full Professor of Pharmacology at the University of Milan and Director of the UniStem Centre for Stem Cell Research. She leads the Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Pharmacology of Neurodegenerative Diseases, focusing on Huntington's Disease (HD) and cholesterol dysfunction mechanisms. Her work combines stem cell biology with pharmacological approaches to identify therapeutic targets and drug-screening tools.

• PhD in Biotechnology Applied to Pharmacology (2001), University of Milan
• Laurea Degree in Pharmacy, summa cum laude (1986), University of Milan

Her research explores HD pathogenesis, neural stem cell differentiation, and cholesterol metabolism in neurodegeneration. She has contributed to international projects like EuroStemcell and NeuroStemcell, emphasizing translational applications.

Scientific Awards:

• ISSCR Public Service Award (2014)
• Stem Cell Person of the Year (2013)
• Premio Tartufari (2012)
• Grande Ippocrate Prize (2008)
• Marisa Bellisario and Chiara D'Onofrio Prizes (2005)
• 'Le Scienze' Prize for Medicine (2001)
• Gold Medal from Italian Republic President (2001)

She has delivered over 350 invited lectures, including plenary sessions at FENS, ISSCR, and the Rome Conference honoring Rita Levi-Montalcini. Her leadership in stem cell research and HD studies has earned her recognition as a Life Senator (2013) and membership in the Academy of Europe (2012).