معرفی
Valeria Cavalli, PhD, is the Robert E. and Louise F. Dunn Professor of Biomedical Research and Professor of Neuroscience at Washington University School of Medicine. Her research focuses on axon regeneration mechanisms in sensory neurons and the role of satellite glial cells in sensory function and dysfunction. She leads the Cavalli Lab, which investigates molecular pathways in peripheral and central nervous system repair using biochemistry, cell biology, in vivo imaging, and single-cell sequencing approaches.
Education:
- BS and Master in Biochemistry, University of Geneva, Switzerland (1987-1992)
- Predoctoral Research, University of Rome "La Sapienza" (1991-1994)
- Predoctoral Research, Biozentrum, Basel, Switzerland (1994-1995)
- PhD in Biochemistry, University of Geneva, Switzerland (1995-2000)
Research Interests: Dr. Cavalli's work centers on intrinsic mechanisms of axon regeneration, satellite glial cell contributions to neural repair, and therapeutic strategies for CNS injuries. Her lab studies neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., Fragile X syndrome), aging-related sensory decline, and multicellular interactions in dorsal root ganglia. Key projects include epigenetic reprogramming after injury, endothelin receptor pathways, and macrophage-mediated regeneration.
Publication Trends: Her recent articles (2021-2024) emphasize single-cell transcriptomics of sensory neurons, glial-neuronal interactions in pain/regeneration, and interventions for neurodevelopmental/aging models. Dominant themes include chromatin remodeling, receptor signaling (e.g., Endothelin B, GABAa), and cross-species molecular conservation.
Awards:
- Robert E. and Louise F. Dunn Professorship (2021)
- NINDS Research Program Award (R35, 2020)
- Stein Innovation Award (2019)
- Jack Griffin Plenary Lecture (2019)
- Distinguished Investigator Award (2014)
Advising & Grants: Dr. Cavalli mentors 19+ trainees (PhD/Master's students and postdocs) and secured major funding including an R35 award for "Multicellular Mechanisms Driving Axon Regeneration." Her lab collaborates with WashU departments (Genetics, Neurology, Anesthesiology) and external institutions like Weizmann Institute.
Lab & Team: The Cavalli Lab comprises postdoctoral fellows, staff scientists, and undergraduates. Current members include Sarah Rosen (neuroimmunology), Irshad Ansari (membrane trafficking), and Brent Trauterman (lab operations). Alumni hold positions at universities and industry worldwide.
