Meet our Scientific Advisory Board

 Dr. Bruce Morimoto is a seasoned drug development expert with over 25 years of experience in advancing therapies for neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. As a consultant and advisor to leading biotech companies and foundations, including the Michael J. Fox Foundation, he has guided innovative treatments from concept to clinical trials. Dr. Morimoto’s pivotal role in inspiring the creation of the v-ATPase Alliance reflects his belief in the potential of science to address even the rarest diseases.

 Dr. Magdalene Moran, CEO of Topo Therapeutics, is a trailblazer in drug discovery for transmembrane protein targets, like v-ATPase, implicated in CNS, pain, and renal diseases. With a 20+ year career, she has successfully advanced multiple therapies from early research to clinical trials, most recently leading Caraway Therapeutics through its acquisition by Merck. Her ability to tackle complex scientific challenges mirrors our determination to confront the most difficult hurdles in v-ATPase research. Her leadership and expertise will be instrumental in advancing our efforts to develop treatments for v-ATPase-related conditions.

 Prof. Renzo Guerrini is a globally recognized expert in pediatric epilepsy and neurogenetics, with a prolific research career including over 700 peer-reviewed publications. As Director of Neuroscience and Medical Genetics at the Children’s Hospital A. Meyer, Florence, he has significantly advanced understanding of epilepsy genes, including ATP6V1A-related encephalopathies. Prof. Guerrini’s longstanding collaboration with some of our families since 2018 has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of v-ATPase-related conditions and makes his role on our SAB deeply personal and impactful.

 Dr. Kasia Goljanek-Whysall, Associate Professor at the University of Galway, is a leading researcher in non-coding RNAs and muscle wasting in aging and neuromuscular conditions. Since her daughter Niamh’s diagnosis with a rare v-ATPase condition, Dr. Goljanek-Whysall has focused her expertise on understanding v-ATPase biology and advocating for rare disease research. Her dual role as a scientist and mother brings an invaluable perspective to our mission.

 Dr. Ángel Aledo-Serrano, neurologist and epileptologist, leads the Vithas Clinical Neuroscience Center in Madrid, where he specializes in neurogenetic and developmental disorders. A pioneer in identifying ATP6V0C-related encephalopathy, Dr. Aledo-Serrano’s commitment to precision medicine and addressing unmet needs makes him an exceptional advocate for patients and families. His expertise and compassionate approach align perfectly with the v-ATPase Alliance’s vision.