Valentino Bezzerri

Valentino Bezzerri is an Associate Professor at Link Campus University - Rome, specializing in molecular pathology and nonsense mutation suppression therapies for rare genetic disorders such as Cystic Fibrosis (CF) and Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome (SDS). His research focuses on translational drug development, inflammatory mechanisms, and cellular senescence. He leads the preclinical research lab at the Cystic Fibrosis Center Regione Veneto (Verona, Italy) and previously directed the Cystic Fibrosis Center of Ancona's laboratory (2018–2021). Key collaborations include work with Prof. Seth J. Corey (Cleveland Clinic) on SDS bone marrow failure, European COST Action EuNet-INNOCHRON for chronic neutropenia, and partnerships with CFIT (SickKids, Toronto) and UNC Chapel Hill on CF inflammation. His studies explore ataluren and CFTR modulators' efficacy, miRNA regulation in SDS, and senescence-driven therapeutic approaches for CF lung disease.

• Roles: Associate Professor, Head of Preclinical Research Lab (Veneto CF Center), Former Director (Ancona CF Lab)
• Key Research Areas: Nonsense mutation therapies, CFTR modulators, cellular senescence, inflammatory pathways
• Collaborations: EuNet-INNOCHRON, Cleveland Clinic, SickKids, UNC Chapel Hill

Research interests emphasize bridging basic science with clinical applications, particularly targeting rare diseases' genetic and inflammatory components. His work includes studying SARS-CoV-2 interactions with CF airways and exploring antioxidants to improve SDS-derived mesenchymal stromal cell function.

Publications highlight advancements in CFTR modulator effects on senescence, EIF6 dosage impacts on TP53 pathways in SDS, and growth charts for SDS patients. His articles underscore systemic inflammation in SDS and the role of miRNAs in disease pathogenesis.

• Awards: No specific honors listed, but active in major research networks
• Grants: Multiple Italian Ministry of Health and Foundation-funded projects

Labs/Teams: Heads the Veneto CF Center's preclinical lab and collaborates with international teams on CF and SDS research. Current studies include CF airway senescence and SDS hematopoietic rescue mechanisms.