Christian Messina | Neuromuscular Diseases | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Christian Messina | Neuromuscular Diseases | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Christian Messina, Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale Caltanissetta, Italy.

Dr. Christian Messina is an accomplished Italian neurologist with a strong academic foundation and a growing impact in the fields of neuromuscular diseases, demyelinating disorders, and dementia. He holds multiple advanced degrees and certifications in neurology and neurophysiology and is currently pursuing further specialization. Practicing across Sicily, he brings clinical expertise to both urban and regional settings. His research contributions, notably the identification of a novel hATTR variant and the use of eculizumab in myasthenic crisis, underscore his innovative approach to complex neurological conditions. With 12 high-impact publications and memberships in major neurological societies, Dr. Messina is a rising voice in Italian and international neuroscience.

Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Christian Messina’s journey into the realm of neuroscience began with distinction at the University of Catania, where he completed his specialization in Neurology with honors. From the outset, his academic excellence set the tone for a career marked by precision, curiosity, and deep commitment to the neurological sciences. Driven by a passion for continuous learning, he later earned a Master’s degree in Adult and Geriatric Neuropsychology from the University of Chieti, and he is currently advancing his expertise through a second Master’s in Neurophysiology at the University of Milan.

Professional Endeavors in Neurology

Currently serving as a Dirigente Medico di I Livello at the Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale in Caltanissetta, Italy, Dr. Messina actively practices across multiple Sicilian provinces including Catania, Messina, Enna, and Siracusa. He undertook a six-month fellowship in neuromuscular disorders at the esteemed Neuromuscular Disease Center, University of Palermo, which sharpened his clinical acumen in diagnosing and managing complex neurological disorders. His work is deeply integrated into regional neurological care and remains pivotal in advancing both adult and pediatric neurophysiological diagnostics.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Messina’s research is primarily focused on neuromuscular diseases, demyelinating CNS disorders such as multiple sclerosis, and dementia-related conditions. He has made significant contributions by identifying and clinically characterizing a novel hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (hATTR) variant, and has proposed innovative therapies such as eculizumab in myasthenic crises. His work has also enhanced understanding of seronegative myasthenia gravis, adding valuable insight to the field. In his clinical publications, he often sheds light on rare genotypic and phenotypic presentations, offering clarity in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Accolades and Recognition

With 12 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, Dr. Messina has built a respected profile in academic neurology. His citation index—H-index 3 on Google Scholar, and 2 on Scopus and Web of Science—reflects the growing relevance of his scholarly contributions. He is also an active member of Italy’s foremost neurological societies including SIN, SINC, and LICE, through which he remains engaged in cutting-edge developments and collaborative scientific exchange.

Impact and Influence

Through his research on biological therapies in myasthenia gravis and the development of normative neurophysiological values for peripheral sensory nerve conduction, Dr. Messina has begun to influence how age-specific neurodiagnostic standards are developed globally. His clinical insights and research have the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment responses for patients across varying age groups. Furthermore, his documented work on rare variants not only expands medical literature but also enables precision medicine in neurology.

Innovation and Vision

Dr. Messina embodies a spirit of clinical innovation, demonstrated by his proactive application of novel therapeutics and diagnostic strategies. His current research continues to explore predictive markers for treatment response, bridging the gap between laboratory science and patient care. His vision is rooted in translating neurophysiological evidence into accessible, everyday clinical protocols that can be adopted widely in both primary and tertiary care settings.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Poised to become a thought leader in clinical neuroscience, Dr. Christian Messina’s dedication to rigorous research and compassionate practice is setting the foundation for a career of enduring impact. As he progresses toward completing his second master’s and expands his portfolio of publications, his work promises to shape the future of neurodiagnostics and neuromuscular care. His commitment to both the academic and clinical communities ensures that his contributions will continue to benefit patients, professionals, and scholars for years to come.

Publication

1. Double seronegative myasthenia gravis and mimics: a retrospective cross-sectional study by two tertiary centers in the Southern Italy
Authors: Maccora S., Vinciguerra C., Messina C., Bevilacqua L., Rini N., Barone P., Brighina F., Di Stefano V.
Year: 2025

2. Woodhouse-Sakati syndrome: A review
Author: Messina C.
Year: 2025

3. Prominent and fast response to eculizumab in myasthenic crisis: the potential as rescue therapy in refractory myasthenia gravis
Authors: Messina C., Basile L., Crescimanno G., Battaglia S., Scichilone N., Brighina F., Di Stefano V.
Year: 2025

4. Stroke Warning Syndrome as the Initial Manifestation of Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy With Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy
Author: Messina C.
Year: 2025

5. Expanding the Genetic and Phenotypic Spectrum of Kearns-Sayre Syndrome: A Case Report
Author: Messina C.
Year: 2025

6. Woman with Breast Cancer Presenting with Opsoclonus–Myoclonus Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Cipolla C., Gebbia V., Di Stefano V., Messina C., Sambataro D., Brighina F., Mesi C., Greco M., Cortegiani A., Valerio M.R.
Year: 2025

7. Genetic Screening for Hereditary Transthyretin Amyloidosis in the Population of Cammarata and San Giovanni Gemini Through Red Flags and Registry Archives
Authors: Di Stefano V., Messina C., Pignolo A., Pecoraro F., Cutrò I., Alonge P., Rini N., Quartetti U., Lo Bue V., Borgione E., et al.
Year: 2025

8. A New Form of Combined Hyperactive Dysfunction Syndrome: A Unique Case
Author: Messina C.
Year: 2025

9. Expanding the Genetic and Clinical Spectrum of Hereditary Transthyretin Amyloidosis: The Glu61Ala Variant
Authors: Messina C., Gulizia S., Scalia F., Borgione E., Cappello F., Brighina F., Di Stefano V.
Year: 2025

10. Is It Time for Ocrelizumab Extended Interval Dosing in Relapsing Remitting MS? Evidence from An Italian Multicenter Experience During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Zanghì A., Avolio C., Signoriello E., Abbadessa G., Cellerino M., Ferraro D., Messina C., Barone S., Callari G., Tsantes E., et al.
Year: 2022

Conclusion

Dr. Messina represents a dynamic blend of clinical excellence and research innovation. His work has already made meaningful contributions to the understanding of rare neuromuscular conditions and therapeutic strategies. As he continues to pursue advanced training and lead impactful research, his influence in the field is expected to grow. He is a strong candidate for prestigious recognitions such as the Best Researcher Award or Excellence in Innovation Award, with the promise of making sustained contributions to neuroscience, clinical neurophysiology, and patient-centered neurological care in the years ahead.

William Mills III | Translational Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. William Mills III | Translational Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. William Mills III, University of Virginia, United States.

William A. Mills III, known as Tré, is a dedicated neuroscientist whose academic and professional journey reflects a strong commitment to translational and interdisciplinary research. With foundational training from Virginia Tech and international exposure through studies in China, Tré has developed a deep expertise in neurovascular coupling and glial biology. His doctoral and postdoctoral research has significantly advanced our understanding of how microglia and aging influence the brain’s vascular systems. Through prestigious fellowships and awards, including the NIH K99/R00 and the AHA Postdoctoral Fellowship, Tré has proven his potential to become a leading figure in neuroscience. His work bridges multiple scientific disciplines and focuses on uncovering mechanisms that contribute to neurological aging and disease.

Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

William A. Mills III, fondly known as Tré, laid a solid foundation for his scientific career through rigorous and diverse academic training. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from Virginia Tech in 2014, where he was actively involved in research labs focusing on virology, behavioral ecology, and disease ecology. His passion for cross-cultural and interdisciplinary learning was evident as he pursued Chinese language studies at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University from 2014 to 2015. This global academic exposure was followed by his Ph.D. in Translational Biology, Medicine & Health with a neuroscience focus at Virginia Tech (2015–2021), where he developed a strong interest in neurovascular and glial biology. These formative experiences created a well-rounded and curious scientist ready to tackle complex biomedical questions.

🧠 Professional Endeavors in Neuroscience

Tré’s professional journey took a pivotal turn when he joined the Eyo Lab at the University of Virginia as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in 2021. His research investigates the intricate role of microglia in regulating capillary basal tone and neurovascular coupling—an area that sits at the intersection of neuroimmunology and vascular biology. His graduate years in the Sontheimer Lab had already shaped his expertise in glial signaling pathways, particularly focusing on the effects of aging on gliovascular interactions involving EGFR and pSTAT3. These experiences underscore a continuous commitment to understanding the cellular mechanisms that underpin brain function and disease.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Throughout his research career, Tré has contributed significantly to the field of neurovascular biology and glial cell research. His scientific curiosity has spanned from studying the cellular mechanics of viral encapsidation in early projects to evaluating semaphorin roles in cardiovascular pathology. Notably, his doctoral work on gliovascular plasticity and his current postdoctoral focus on microglia’s role in cerebral blood flow regulation highlight his interdisciplinary approach. By bridging neuroscience, immunology, and vascular biology, he is shedding light on the fundamental processes that maintain brain health and how their disruption leads to age-related and neurodegenerative diseases.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Tré’s outstanding research potential has been recognized by several prestigious institutions. He was awarded the American Heart Association Career Development Award (which he respectfully declined), the American Heart Association Postdoctoral Fellowship (25POST1376070), and the UVA Brain Institute Postdoctoral Research Fellowship. In addition, he secured training support through the UVA Cardiovascular Research Center T32 Training Grant, reflecting the strong institutional belief in his capabilities. Most notably, he earned the competitive NIH K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award, a mark of distinction for early-career researchers poised to transition to faculty positions.

🔬 Impact and Influence in Translational Neuroscience

Tré’s research contributions are highly translational in nature, linking basic cellular mechanisms to potential therapeutic implications in aging, stroke, and neurodegeneration. His work on microglial function in neurovascular coupling could provide new insights into how blood flow dysregulation contributes to cognitive decline and dementia. By exploring how aging alters glial and vascular interactions, Tré’s research holds the promise to inform interventions targeting the brain’s support systems to preserve function in aging populations. His influence is also visible through collaborative projects, lab mentorship, and participation in international research endeavors.

🌍 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Tré is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the field of neurovascular biology. With a trajectory marked by intellectual rigor, global awareness, and translational relevance, he is expected to lead pioneering studies that will redefine our understanding of brain support systems in health and disease. The foundation laid by his NIH K99/R00 award positions him well to establish an independent research program, where he will likely mentor future scientists and push the boundaries of neuroscience through integrative and innovative research methodologies.

🧬 A Champion of Interdisciplinary Science

A defining trait of Tré’s career is his seamless integration of diverse scientific fields—ranging from immunology and neuroscience to cardiovascular biology and behavioral ecology. This interdisciplinary ethos not only enriches his research output but also positions him as a bridge-builder in science, capable of uniting different perspectives to address complex biomedical challenges. His academic journey from microbiology and animal behavior to glial biology exemplifies a dynamic scientist committed to evolving with the science, while remaining grounded in his passion for discovery.

Publication

  • Title: Capillary-associated microglia regulate vascular structure and function through PANX1-P2RY12 coupling in mice
    Authors: K. Bisht, K.A. Okojie, K. Sharma, D.H. Lentferink, Y.Y. Sun, H.R. Chen, …
    Year: 2021

 

  • Title: Spatially expandable fiber-based probes as a multifunctional deep brain interface
    Authors: S. Jiang, D.C. Patel, J. Kim, S. Yang, W.A. Mills III, Y. Zhang, K. Wang, Z. Feng, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • Title: Astrocyte plasticity in mice ensures continued endfoot coverage of cerebral blood vessels following injury and declines with age
    Authors: W.A. Mills III, A.L.M. Woo, S. Jiang, J. Martin, D. Surendran, M. Bergstresser, …
    Year: 2022

 

  • Title: Lactobacillus rescues postnatal neurobehavioral and microglial dysfunction in a model of maternal microbiome dysbiosis
    Authors: Y. Lebovitz, E.A. Kowalski, X. Wang, C. Kelly, M. Lee, V. McDonald, R. Ward, …
    Year: 2019

 

  • Title: Potassium and glutamate transport is impaired in scar-forming tumor-associated astrocytes
    Authors: S.C. Campbell, C. Muñoz-Ballester, L. Chaunsali, W.A. Mills III, J.H. Yang, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • Title: LRRTM1 underlies synaptic convergence in visual thalamus
    Authors: A. Monavarfeshani, G. Stanton, J. Van Name, K. Su, W.A. Mills III, K. Swilling, …
    Year: 2018

 

  • Title: EphA4/Tie2 crosstalk regulates leptomeningeal collateral remodeling following ischemic stroke
    Authors: B. Okyere, W.A. Mills, X. Wang, M. Chen, J. Chen, A. Hazy, Y. Qian, J.B. Matson, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • Title: Nano-optoelectrodes integrated with flexible multifunctional fiber probes by high-throughput scalable fabrication
    Authors: S. Jiang, J. Song, Y. Zhang, M. Nie, J. Kim, A.L. Marcano, K. Kadlec, …
    Year: 2021

 

  • Title: The emergence of the calvarial hematopoietic niche in health and disease
    Authors: W.A. Mills III, M.A. Coburn, U.B. Eyo
    Year: 2022

 

  • Title: Using zebrafish to elucidate glial-vascular interactions during CNS development
    Authors: R.A. Umans, C. Pollock, W.A. Mills III, K.C. Clark, Y.A. Pan, H. Sontheimer
    Year: 2021

 

🧾 Conclusion

Tré stands out as a forward-thinking and highly skilled researcher whose contributions are shaping the future of neurovascular and glial research. His innovative approach, academic excellence, and recognition by top funding agencies underscore his suitability for leadership roles in neuroscience. As he transitions into an independent research career, Tré is expected to make enduring impacts on the scientific community through groundbreaking discoveries, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. His trajectory is a testament to his dedication, curiosity, and potential to transform brain health research.