Biography:
Dr. Anna Maria Bassi currently serves as a Contract Professor and Assistant Professor at the School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa. With a rich background in promoting the 3R principles (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement of animal use in scientific research), Dr. Anna Maria Bassi co-founded Centro3R and serves as its Vice Director. Additionally, they hold an expert position in the Italian Ministry of Health’s Working Group focused on animal testing legislation. As the Project Manager of the ISO9001:2008 certified Analysis and Research Laboratory (LARF), Dr. Anna Maria Bassi has organized and led 12 courses on Alternative Methods to Animal Experimentation.
Dr. Anna Maria Bassi's research primarily revolves around the development of physiologically relevant in vitro 3D models to study human disease pathways, the in vitro differentiation of adult human stem cells, and the analysis of toxicity and biological potential of both natural and synthetic compounds. Their innovative work includes the patented Scaffold for 3D in vitro culture (Number 102017000087978). A dedicated member of multiple scientific societies, Dr. Bassi is actively involved with Beyond Animal Experimentation (OSA), the European Society for Alternatives to Animal Testing (EUSAAT), and the European Society of Toxicology In Vitro (ESTIV).
In the academic realm, Dr. Bassi has contributed significantly through teaching in Master's programs focused on animal protection in scientific activities, as well as PhD courses and medical specialization schools. They have also managed numerous training courses on alternative methods. Recognized for their pioneering work, Dr. Bassi has received several awards, including the AnimaLAV Prize for Researchers and Innovators, the LUSH Prize, and they represented Italy in vitro toxicology discussions at the European Parliament.
Recent projects led by Dr. Bassi include the development of human alveolar tissue models for evaluating toxic agents' carcinogenic potential, a multi-organ millifluidic platform for glaucoma research, and sustainable recycling projects under PRIN. These efforts underscore Dr. Bassi's commitment to advancing medical research while reducing reliance on animal testing.
Title : An innovative in vitro human-based millifluidic platform as useful tool to underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration in glaucoma