Matthew J. Bellizzi

Matthew J. Bellizzi, M.D., Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Clinical Neurology at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. He is affiliated with the Department of Neurology and the Neuroimmunology program at the Strong Memorial Hospital. His research focuses on understanding how HIV-1 disrupts synaptic homeostasis and neuroinflammatory pathways, with particular emphasis on multiple sclerosis (MS) and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Bellizzi completed his MD at the University of Rochester and his neurology residency at the same institution.

His work integrates molecular neuropharmacology, immunology, and advanced imaging techniques to explore therapeutic interventions targeting mixed lineage kinase (MLK) pathways. Key projects include developing inhibitors like URMC-099 to mitigate synaptic injury in neuroinflammatory diseases and studying the role of complement signaling in MS. Collaborations span neurology, virology, and nanotechnology, addressing conditions such as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND), Alzheimer’s disease, and post-surgical cognitive dysfunction.

Bellizzi’s lab is part of the Gelbard Lab, which investigates glial-immune interactions in neuroinflammation. His contributions include patents on neuroprotective compounds and translational research bridging basic science and clinical therapeutics. He is widely recognized for excellence in patient care, with consistently high ratings for communication and thoroughness.