Established in 2009, the Hepatology Unit has been actively engaged in genetic research, building on the foundation laid by the IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza." Its primary research focus has been the genetics of individuals infected with the HCV virus and, more recently, the genetics and epigenetics of MAFLD/MASH. The Unit also conducts genetic diagnostic activities for Wilson’s disease, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, and Gilbert’s syndrome. Beyond these efforts, the Unit has participated in more than 12 international phase 2 and 3 clinical trials aimed at investigating novel treatments for liver diseases, including MASH/NASH, primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary hepatic carcinoma.
The Unit’s scientific productivity is evidenced by a remarkable h-index of 59 and over 250 publications authored by the project leader, averaging more than 10 full-length articles annually. The project leader’s active involvement in over 500 international conferences and courses, as well as numerous national events, underscores their dedication to advancing the field of hepatology. Since its inception, the Unit has organized an annual international conference that brings together leading hepatology experts from around the world. In addition to its research accomplishments, the Hepatology Laboratory has been instrumental in mentoring more than 10 biologists through their experimental thesis projects. It also serves as a key training environment for hepatology residents from both Italy and abroad, providing them with valuable hands-on learning opportunities during their specialized education.
