Pietro Baldelli

Pietro Baldelli is a Full Professor of Physiology at the Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, School of Medicine. He also serves as an Affiliated Researcher at the Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, and at San Martino Polyclinic Hospital in Genoa. With a career spanning over three decades since graduating in Biological Science from the University of Genoa in 1992, Professor Baldelli has developed a strong biophysical and neurophysiological background with recognized expertise in neuronal excitability, synaptic transmission and plasticity, and research project management.

Professor Baldelli's research interests focus on the molecular mechanisms underlying both physiological and pathological processes of neurotransmission and neuronal excitability. His work spans multiple scales, from single synaptic contacts to complex neuronal networks. He employs a variety of electrophysiological and functional imaging approaches, including patch-clamp and high-density multi-electrode array recordings combined with molecular and cellular biology techniques. His research has evolved to include significant contributions to neurotechnology development, particularly in optogenetics and novel recording systems.

His publication record shows consistent productivity with research evolving from fundamental neurophysiology to innovative neurotechnology development. Recent publications (2016-2022) demonstrate a clear focus on developing new methodologies for neuronal stimulation and recording, with the Ziapin2 photoswitch representing a particularly innovative approach that avoids genetic modification of neurons. His work bridges basic neuroscience with potential clinical applications, particularly in understanding neurological disorders like autism and epilepsy.

• Functional characterization of synaptic transmission in autism and epilepsy models
• Study of intrinsic and synaptic homeostasis mechanisms
• Investigation of neurotrophins' role in synaptic function
• Development of engineered neuronal networks
• Analysis of molecular mechanisms of synaptic vesicle trafficking
• Innovation in neurotechnology including biosensors and recording systems

Professor Baldelli teaches courses on Human Physiology, Neurophysiology, and Electrophysiological Technologies. His research group includes PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and technical staff working collaboratively on interdisciplinary projects that integrate neuroscience, engineering, and molecular biology. The lab maintains strong connections with both academic and clinical institutions, facilitating translational research approaches.