Course referent: Prof. Massimiliano Castellazzi

This intensive course explores neuroinflammation, starting with the pathophysiology of the CSF and the blood-brain barrier, and then delving into the general mechanisms of inflammation in the central nervous system and the specifics of optic nerve inflammation. Multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, and MOG antibody disease will be analyzed in detail, focusing on key biomarkers for diagnosis and monitoring. The course will include hands-on simulation sessions on CSF examination and the use of diagnostic imaging, while also providing an overview of current and future neuropharmacological therapies.

Class schedule:

June 23, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

June 30, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

July 07, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom

July 14, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

July 21, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

Number of hours: 15

Credits: 3

Course referent: Prof.ssa Luana Calabrò

The Oncology Course provides advanced training for physicians and biologists, emphasizing the molecular foundations and clinical aspects of neoplasms. The program integrates basic and applied research, covering topics such as molecular oncology, immunotherapy, genomics and the development of personalized therapies. Doctoral students will gain experience in designing and conducting clinical and preclinical studies, critically analyzing scientific data, and effectively communicating results. A distinctive feature of the course is the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into oncology, exploring applications such as medical image analysis, drug discovery and personalized medicine. The objective is to train researchers capable of translating scientific discoveries into innovative clinical applications, thus improving the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients. 

Class schedule:

March 12, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom

March 19, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

April 13, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom

May 12, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

June 9, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

Number of hours: 15

Credits: 3

Course referent: Dott.ssa Eva Reali 

The course aims to provide a theoretical and practical overview of immunotherapy, with particular attention to chronic inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases and tumors. The clinical features, immunopathogenesis, mouse models and experimental therapies of organ-specific and systemic autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA), will be analyzed. In addition, the course will deepen the principles of tumor immunology, the mouse models currently in use for the study of innovative strategies of emerging immunotherapies. The program combines theory and practice for advanced training in this field. 

Class schedule:

February 05 febbraio 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

February 12, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom

February 19, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

February 26, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom

March 05, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

Number of hours: 15

Credits: 3

Course referent: Dott.ssa Ilaria PANZINI

The course illustrates the processes involved in drug development, the rationale behind a clinical trial, and the methods for planning and coordinating a research protocol. It also provides knowledge on selecting the most appropriate methodologies and correctly interpreting results. Additionally, the course highlights the critical issues that are most frequently encountered and that can hinder compliance with the continuously evolving regulatory framework. The main topics covered include the planning of clinical trials and the phases of drug development, from inception to market authorization. The course also addresses the organizational and ethical-legal aspects of Phase I units, the quality standards in Phase I clinical studies, and the role of ethics committees.

Class schedule:

May 04, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

May 14, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

May 18, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

May 25, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom  

May 28, 2026 at 2.30 PM to 5.30 PM, Classroom 

Number of hours: 15

Credits: 3