ISSNAF Story: Interview with Pietro De Camilli

Pietro De Camilli: From Cells to Synapses — A Lifelong Bridge Between Science and Discovery

In this #ISSNAFStory, Barbara Rosario interviews Professor Pietro De Camilli of Yale University, recipient of the ISSNAF Lifetime Achievement Award, as he reflects on a pioneering career at the crossroads of cell biology and neuroscience.

De Camilli’s research reveals how lipid membranes enable neurons to communicate, uncovering the molecular basis of synaptic transmission and how membrane dynamics sustain brain function.

A key breakthrough from his lab linked these mechanisms to Parkinson’s disease: his team showed that certain membrane proteins—later identified as Parkinson’s genes—help maintain lysosome integrity, and their dysfunction can damage neurons, suggesting new therapeutic paths.

Rooted in his Italian heritage, De Camilli reflects on his journey from Milan to Yale and his efforts to strengthen ties between Italian and North American research communities through ISSNAF. Now living by the sea in Connecticut, he finds in nature the same wonder that first sparked his love for discovery.

Find more about Prof. De Camilli and other ISSNAF | Members in Action!