Luca Gallelli was born in Naples on November 03 1973 and he graduated in Medicine and Surgery at the University of Reggio Calabria, Italy on 1997. In the same year he started the PhD program in Pharmacology and Toxycology (Chemiotherapy) at the Second University of Naples, Italy. During this period, he studied the lung function in vivo and in vitro models. He improved his learning (lung function in animal models and in cell culture (fibroblasts, bronchial epithelial cells, cancer cells) in London at the Department of Pharmacology King’s College London (directed by Prof C.P. Page), and at the Department of Pulmonary Pharmacology in Faculty of Medicine Paris Ouest, Francia (directed by Prof C. Advenier), In 2005 he obtained the degree as Specialist in Clinical Pharmacology at the School of Medicine University of Catanzaro. From 2007 to date, he works in Pharmacology at the University of Catanzaro, Italy, and his field of expertise are Clinical pharmacology, clinical toxicology, drug use
EDUCATION
degree in medicine and surgery,
PhD in Pharmacology and Toxicology (Chemotherapy) in Second University of Naples, Italy,
Specialist in Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine University of Catanzaro
Postgraduate Course in Quality Organization & Personnel Management in Public Health, acquired at the "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro
1st Level Theoretical and Practical Course in Oxygen Ozone therapy. Organized by the Italian Society of Oxygen Ozone Therapy
RESEARCH, TEACHING, or OTHER INTERESTS
Pharmacology (medical), General Medicine, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology
328
Scopus Publications
Scopus Publications
Prostate health supporting by a novel nutraceutical compound with antioxidant property: Results from a pilot study Claudio Marino, Marco Magliocchetti, Dario Di Lieto, Erika Cione, Cristina Vocca, et al. Urologia Journal, 2026 In recent years, healthcare strategies have increasingly emphasized a holistic and comprehensive approach in patient management that extends beyond the treatment of isolated physical symptoms. In this context, the use of nutraceuticals has gained interest as a complementary approach, particularly in managing chronic conditions and age-related disorders, such as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). A new dietary supplement, contains a blend of bio-active compounds (Drolessano ® )—including lycopene, sulforaphane, silymarin, glutathione, escine, tryptophan, and green tea extract—has been introduced in Italian pharmacopeia as food supplements in urological and andrological diseases. Here, we aim to assess the effects of Drolessano ® on serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and urinary symptoms in individuals with BPH. Fifty-five men presenting with elevated PSA values and mild lower urinary tract symptoms (International Prostate Symptom Score [IPSS] < 7) were recruited in this pilot study. All enrolled patients underwent Drolessano ® one tablet daily for 6 months. PSA concentrations and IPSS scores were recorded at baseline (T0), at 3 months (T1), and at the end of the treatment period (T2). Data at the follow-up has been compared with those at baseline. Patients enrolled experienced a statistical significance average PSA declined from 4.8 to 3.7 ng/mL ( p < 0.003), as well as in improvement of quality of life, tested by patient reported outcomes. The supplement was generally well tolerated, and no serious adverse effects were reported during the study period. These preliminary data suggest that Drolessano ® may offer a supportive benefit in the management of BPH, particularly with respect to reducing PSA levels and improvement quality of life. Otherwise, controlled trials with larger sample sizes are needed to substantiate these findings and to better understand the underlying mechanisms of action.
Inflammatory Biomarkers Are Associated with Pain and Functional Impairment in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study Luca Gallelli, Vincenzo Rania, Roberta Macrì, Mirza Suljagic, Andzelika Michniewicz, et al. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2026 Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a heterogeneous joint disorder traditionally considered mechanically driven; however, evidence indicates that inflammatory mechanisms contribute to symptom expression. Exploratory analyses of peripheral biomarkers may provide insights into systemic inflammation in symptomatic knee OA, but formal phenotypic validation requires dedicated clustering or longitudinal studies. Objective: To examine associations between clinical pain, functional impairment, and circulating inflammatory biomarkers in patients with knee OA compared with healthy controls. Methods: In this prospective, single-center study, patients aged 40–80 years with radiographically confirmed knee OA and chronic knee pain were compared with age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Pain intensity and functional status were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Circulating inflammatory biomarkers, including cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases, were quantified using multiplex immunoassays. Statistical analyses included adjusted linear regression models, with age and BMI as covariates, and multiple testing correction using the Benjamini–Hochberg procedure (FDR alpha error 5%). Results: OA patients exhibited higher circulating levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, MMP-1, MMP-3, TNFSF13, TNFSF13B, and pentraxin-3 compared with controls (p < 0.01). No significant sex differences were observed. KOOSs correlated with IL-6 and IL-10 levels, suggesting an association between systemic inflammatory activity and functional limitation. All findings are presented as exploratory and associative. Conclusions: Patients with knee OA display systemic inflammatory biomarker differences associated with pain and functional impairment. These results support the role of inflammation in OA symptoms within an exploratory framework. Larger, longitudinal studies are warranted to validate these observations.
The Effectiveness and Safety of a New Nutraceutical in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Pilot Study Cristina Vocca, Vincenzo Rania, Gianmarco Marcianò, Caterina Palleria, Lucia Muraca, et al. Nutraceuticals, 2026 Background: Nutraceuticals are increasingly used in clinical practice for their anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and antioxidant properties. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a fixed nutraceutical combination containing chondroitin sulfate, α-lipoic acid, astaxanthin, lycopene, escin, and omega-3 fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid) in improving pain and quality of life in patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods: This observational study included patients with chronic knee OA who were referred to the ambulatory pain clinic at Dulbecco University Hospital, Catanzaro, Italy. Participants received one tablet daily for three months. Quality of life was assessed using the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were evaluated using the Naranjo scale. Results: Fifty patients (20 men and 30 women; mean age, 63.6 ± 11.4 years; range, 26–88 years; mean body mass index, 26.9 ± 3.7 kg/m2) were enrolled. Pain symptoms demonstrated a statistically significant improvement over time (p < 0.01). No ADRs were reported during the study period. Conclusions: The fixed nutraceutical combination improved pain and quality of life in patients with chronic knee OA and demonstrated an excellent safety profile.
Managing Gut Dysbiosis: Clinical Evidence and Perspectives on Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745 for Diarrhoeal Conditions in Adults and Children Gerardo Pio Nardone, Arrigo Francesco Giuseppe Cicero, Luca Gallelli, Roberto Berni Canani Microorganisms, 2026 The human gut microbiota plays a key role in health and disease across the lifespan and is shaped by complex intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Dysbiosis is increasingly recognized as a contributor to a wide range of clinical conditions, with diarrhoea—particularly antibiotic-associated diarrhoea—representing an early clinical marker of microbiota disruption. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the probiotic yeast Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745 and its clinical applications in both paediatric and adult populations. Available clinical data support its safety and efficacy in the prevention and management of gastrointestinal disorders, particularly diarrhoeal conditions, and suggest a potential role in promoting microbiota resilience. Key mechanisms of action, safety considerations, and findings from randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses are discussed. However, current data remains limited by heterogeneity among studies and a lack of long-term, mechanistic data, highlighting the need for further well-designed studies to clarify its role across different clinical settings.
Pharmacogenetic testing in Italy: results of a nationwide survey by the Joint Working Group for the pharmacogenetics implementation in Italy Rossana Roncato, Samantha Perfler, Martina Gambron, Enrico Zoroddu, Monica Rosa Miozzo, et al. European Journal of Human Genetics, 2026 Pharmacogenetics enables personalization of drug therapy based on an individual’s genetic profile. Despite clinical relevance, implementation of pharmacogenetics remains limited. In Italy, integration is fragmented, with heterogeneous practices and a lack of national coordination. A comprehensive assessment of the current landscape is essential. A nationwide survey was conducted between January and October 2025 to map laboratories providing pharmacogenetic testing. A structured questionnaire collected data on institutional characteristics, testing workflows, pharmacogene panels, analytical methodologies, interpretation procedures, and reimbursement. Forty-nine laboratories participated (response rate: 65%). Most were part of public institutions (82%), primarily general or research hospitals. Testing was predominantly performed in medical genetics units (39%) and focused on oncology, specifically DPYD (94%) and UGT1A1 (84%) for fluoropyrimidine and irinotecan therapies. Adherence to national (SIF/AIOM) and international (CPIC/DPWG) guidelines was generally high; compliance with AMP Tier 1 analytical standards varied substantially. Pharmacological counseling was provided by only 29% of laboratories, mainly by clinical pharmacology units. Considerable heterogeneity emerged in testing platforms, bioinformatics tools, and the use of CE-IVD-certified kits. Marked geographical disparities were evident, with pharmacogenetic activity concentrated in Northern Italy. This survey provides the first national overview of pharmacogenetics implementation in Italy, revealing variability in laboratory practices, interpretation standards, and clinical integration. While oncology-related testing is widely adopted and guideline adherence is increasing, the lack of a coordinated national framework restricts consistency and equitable access. Establishing a coordinated network of pharmacogenetic laboratories with harmonized standards for testing, reporting, and education is crucial for evidence-based pharmacogenetic care.
The Role and Safety of Plant-Derived Nutraceuticals as Adjuvant Treatments for Pain Management: A Narrative Review Gianmarco Marcianò, Vincenzo Rania, Cristina Vocca, Caterina Palleria, Michele Crudo, et al. Nutraceuticals, 2025 Chronic pain represents a major challenge for healthcare systems worldwide. Pharmacological agents such as opioids, gabapentinoids, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used depending on the pain type (nociceptive, neuropathic, or nociplastic), but their use is often limited by adverse effects. Nutraceuticals and dietary supplements have emerged as potential adjuvants to conventional pain management, offering improved safety profiles. This narrative review aims to evaluate the preliminary evidence on the efficacy and safety of selected plant-derived nutraceuticals for pain management. Particular attention is given to a new fixed nutraceutical formulation containing lycopene, sulforaphane (Brassica oleracea), silymarin (extracted from Silybum marianum), reduced glutathione, escin (Aesculus hippocastanum), tryptophan, and green tea (Camellia sinensis). Although this formulation has not yet been evaluated in clinical trials, preliminary data suggest that individual components may target different pain mechanisms. None of the currently available nutraceuticals act comprehensively on all pain types. Additionally, the inclusion of hepatoprotective compounds (e.g., glutathione and silymarin) may be advantageous for patients receiving multiple medications. Current evidence on these nutraceuticals remains limited and primarily preclinical. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in human pain management.
Pregabalin and Duloxetine in Patients with Non-Nociceptive Pain: A Narrative Review Exploring the Pharmacological Effects of This Combination Gianmarco Marcianò, Maurizio Evangelista, Cristina Vocca, Vincenzo Rania, Caterina Palleria, et al. Pharmaceuticals, 2025 Both neuropathic and nociplastic pain (non-nociceptive pain) are characterized by a similar pattern of clinical symptoms, including numbness, dysesthesia, tingling, and pricking. Whereas nociplastic pain results from altered nociception without indication of tissue damage or a somatosensory system lesion, neuropathic pain is caused by a disease or lesion affecting the somatosensory system. The available therapeutic options consist of antiepileptic drugs, antidepressants, and muscle relaxants. Unfortunately, symptoms are often refractory, and increasing drug dosage may lead to adverse events. In this narrative review, we searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases from their inception up to 26 July 2025, using the key words “duloxetine,” “pregabalin,” and then ‘‘combination,’’ “nociplastic pain,” “neuropathic pain,” “efficacy,” “safety,” “pharmacology,” “pharmacokinetic,” and “pharmacodynamic.” We evaluated the role of combination therapy with duloxetine, a serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, and pregabalin, an antiseizure medication that acts on voltage-gated calcium channels α2δ subunit, in patients with neuropathic or nociplastic pain. The literature data indicate that combination therapy has synergistic effects, leading to fewer adverse events in specific categories of patients. Available evidence showed that combination therapy is generally not inferior to monotherapy, with slight differences in safety outcomes depending on supplementation, drug labels, and titration. These results indicate that even if not superior, combination therapy may be an alternative to monotherapy in selected patients: those who experience side effects from higher dosages of duloxetine or pregabalin and for whom symptom relief from dose reduction alone is not possible; those who use medications that interact with duloxetine; those who suffer from anxiety–depression, where pain is closely linked to mental symptoms; and those who have central neuropathic pain (often refractory).
Emerging biological treatments for asthma Daniela Pastore, Chiara Lupia, Maria D’Amato, Andrea Bruni, Eugenio Garofalo, et al. Expert Opinion on Emerging Drugs, 2025
Dupilumab for the treatment of asthma Corrado Pelaia, Alessandro Vatrella, Luca Gallelli, Rosa Terracciano, Paolo Navalesi, et al. Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy, 2017
Estrogen Receptors and Chronic Venous Disease R. Serra, L. Gallelli, P. Perri, E.M. De Francesco, D.C. Rigiracciolo, et al. European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, 2016
Aterofisiol® in carotid plaque evolution Raffaele Serra, Bruno Amato, Rita Compagna, Maurizio Amato, Luca Gallelli, et al. Drug Design Development and Therapy, 2015
Skin rash during treatment with generic itraconazole Antonio De Vuono, Caterina Palleria, Francesca Scicchitano, Aida Squillace, Giovambattista De Sarro, et al. Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapeutics, 2014
Pegylated interferon/telbivudine sequential therapy in Hepatitis Be antigen negative severe chronic Hepatitis B patient Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2013
Use of topiramate for glossodynia Antonio Siniscalchi, Luca Gallelli, Norma Maria Marigliano, Paola Orlando, Giovambattista De Sarro Pain Medicine, 2007
Characterization of adenosine receptors involved in adenosine-induced contraction in sensitized guinea pig isolated trachea Research Communications in Pharmacology and Toxicology, 1999
2017 RY Gold Zyp During the Italian Award of Innovation
IPA Adrion 2024
RESEARCH OUTPUTS (PATENTS, SOFTWARE, PUBLICATIONS, PRODUCTS)
1 Gallelli L, Cione E, Aiello F. Preparato per uso topico a base di 2-(3,4-diidrossifenil) -5,7-diidrossi-4-oxo-4H-cromen-3-1 oleato, in associazione con acido ialuronico per l’uso nel trattamento di ulcere e ferite cutanee e relativo metodo di produzione. BREVETTO INDUSTRIALE. n 102017000111372 17/12/2019.
2 Microbiota Quantity Test deposito di utilità presso UIMB del 15/06/2017. 202017000066854.
3 Gallelli L, Cione E, Caroleo MC, Cannataro R. Uso di microRNA come biomarcatori per la diagnosi e/o il follow-up del danno polmonare nei soggetti esposti ad inquinanti ambientali. Number 102017000034619 18/10/2017; International Patent 2/03/2018, PCT/IB2018/052176
4 G-Screen. Dispositivo medicale per la valutazione quali-quantitativa del latte materno durante l’allattamento. Number 102016000115242 27/07/2017.
5 Paolino FM, Romano F, Gallelli L, Dominijanni A. Metodo di preparazione di sangue periferico per l’ottenimento di un preparato con alte concentrazioni di fattori di crescita. Number: 102016000011829 04/02/2016.
