Roles
Professor of Medicine (rank pending)
Director of Basic and Translational Science in PCCSM
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Biography
Dr. Franco R. D’Alessio, a Professor of Medicine (rank pending), is an esteemed physician-scientist specializing in pulmonary and critical care medicine. Recognized for his groundbreaking research on the resolution and repair of acute lung injury, Dr. D’Alessio has contributed significantly to understanding regulatory T cells' (Tregs) role in orchestrating lung repair and resolution of lung inflammation. His studies have paved the way for potential novel immunotherapies, including Cellular therapies with human Tregs, DNA demethylating agents, and IL-4 reprogramming of macrophages to treat acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Dr. D’Alessio is widely published, advancing clinical practice and immunological research in respiratory medicine. He continues to mentor the next generation of physician-scientists while delivering exceptional care to critically ill patients. -
Education & Training
Education
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Research Interests
1. Lung Injury Resolution and RepairDr. D’Alessio focuses on understanding the mechanisms that drive the resolution lung inflammation and lung injury repair. His research has uncovered the role of regulatory T cells in orchestrating lung repair by modulating immune responses and enhancing tissue regeneration.
2. Role of Regulatory T Cells (Tregs)A key area of his work explores how regulatory T cells orchestra lung repair by modulating pro-inflammatory macrophage responses, promoting alveolar epithelial proliferation, and repairing damaged endothelium. This research has identified Tregs as critical players in resolving lung inflammation and injury, particularly acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). His laboratory focuses on hormonal and molecular regulation involved in enhancing Treg pro-repair function.
3. DNA Demethylation and ImmunotherapyDr. D’Alessio has pioneered research into using DNA demethylating agents to reprogram immune cells. These therapies aim to enhance the natural repair processes in the lungs, offering potential new treatments for ARDS and other severe pulmonary conditions.
4. Reprogramming lung macrophagesAnother innovative area of his research investigates the use of IL-4 therapy to reprogram macrophages and promote lung repair. This work has significant implications for developing therapies targeting lung inflammatory immunopathologies.
5.Translational Research for ARDSDr. D’Alessio’s research bridges basic science and clinical application, aiming to translate his findings into therapeutic interventions for ARDS and other critical lung conditions. This includes preclinical and clinical studies exploring novel immune-based treatments.
6. Checkpoint Inhibitor pneumonitisWe have described immunological mechanisms underlying checkpoint inhibitor pneumonitis (CIP). We are working on an experimental model of CIP while continuing to evaluate the translational immunology of patients’ biospecimens.