Speaker

Marco Falasca

Professor Marco Falasca is a distinguished professor of biochemistry, internationally recognised for his groundbreaking research in cancer biology, lipid signalling, and metabolic diseases. Currently based at the University of Parma, Italy, Prof. Falasca leads a dynamic research program focused on uncovering the molecular mechanisms that underpin pancreatic cancer and diabetes.

A central focus of his work is pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest and most complex malignancies. Prof. Falasca has made seminal contributions to the understanding of its molecular pathology, particularly through the study of lipid signalling pathways and their role in tumour initiation, progression, and metastasis. His research has shed light on bioactive lipids such as lysophosphatidylinositol and sphingosine-1-phosphate, revealing their influence in shaping the tumour microenvironment and cancer cell behaviour.

Prof. Falasca is also deeply invested in the study of extracellular vesicles, especially small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) or exosomes, and their critical role in cancer communication and progression. His work explores how these vesicles carry oncogenic cargo, including signalling lipids, and facilitate crosstalk between cancer cells and their surroundings, offering promising avenues for diagnostic and therapeutic innovation.

With over 200 peer-reviewed publications and numerous citations, Prof. Falasca is widely regarded as a thought leader in his field. He is a highly sought-after speaker, mentor, and collaborator, with active partnerships across international research centres. His commitment to translational science continues to drive the development of novel biomarkers and therapeutic strategies, reinforcing his reputation as a visionary in oncology and metabolic research.