LAUSR

I received didactic training in the field of headache as an undergraduate in Medicine at the Sapienza University of Rome. At that time, I attended the lab of clinical neurophysiology under the supervision of Professor Francesco Pierelli and remained updated with the available literature on the neurophysiological aspects of migraine. From then, I developed an increasing interest in the field, and accepted a fellowship position at the Headache Clinic, Belgium, directed by Professor Jean Schoenen. My research focus was on cortical and subcortical neuronal oscillatory activity in individuals with migraine, particularly the emerging role of the thalamus in the pathophysiology of migraine. Subsequently, I received a faculty position at the Sapienza University in Latina, close to Rome, where I have continued to conduct research on the mechanisms of habituation and sensitization, and dysfunction in migraine, in terms of both neuromodulation and genetic factors, and their modifications during the migraine cycle. Advancements in high field magnetic resonance imaging have enabled me to examine the micro and macro structure, and functional connectivity of the brain in individuals with migraine. Moreover, new pathophysiological acquisitions and commercialization of new, targeted biological drugs may allow the development of more effective treatment plans for the management of migraine. My interest in the pathophysiology of headache led to membership of the International Headache Society; in 2007, I started as a junior committee member and am currently serving as trustee. I strongly support the goals of the organization to advance knowledge in the field of headache and disseminate this information worldwide. I am honoured to work with the world’s leading headache specialists and share responsibility for the collection of correct information and improvement of the patient’s quality of life, which are the fundamental aims of any scientific and clinical process.