Paolo Manunta

Paolo Manunta is a Professor of Nephrology at Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, where he serves as Chair of Nephrology and Director of the School of Nephrology. He also directs the Strategic Program in Nephrology and Dialysis at San Raffaele Scientific Institute in Milan, Italy.

His educational background includes an MD from the University of Sassari (1985, cum laude), specialty training in Cardiology (1985-1989), a Post Doctoral Fellowship at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (1990-1993), and a Specialty in Nephrology from the University of Milan (2000, cum laude).

Dr. Manunta's research focuses on hypertension mechanisms, particularly the role of endogenous ouabain and genetic factors like ADD1 variants in blood pressure regulation. His work spans molecular physiology of sodium handling, cardiovascular and renal complications of hypertension, and pharmacogenomics applications for personalized hypertension treatment. He pioneered research demonstrating how endogenous ouabain and genetic variants influence renal sodium reabsorption in hypertension development.

His recent publication trends show dual focus: continued hypertension research (particularly endogenous ouabain mechanisms) and expanding work on geriatric nephrology through the FRASNET study examining frailty, sarcopenia, and obesity in aging populations. His publications span nephrology, hypertension, genetics, and geriatrics with significant translational impact.

• 1992 American Heart Association (Council of Hypertension)
• 1996 Italian-American Nephrology Society
• Multiple top presentations at SIN Italian Nephrology Society meetings (2000, 2004, 2005, 2008)
• 2004 European Hypertension Specialist designation
• Invited speaker at major international conferences including ERA/EDTA Congress and University of Maryland seminars

As Director of the School of Nephrology, Dr. Manunta leads research teams investigating hypertension mechanisms and personalized treatment approaches. His translational research program bridges basic science discoveries with clinical applications, particularly in pharmacogenomics for hypertension management. He has established significant international collaborations, including with J. Staessen's group in Belgium for large population studies on hypertension genetics.