Ylenia Della Rocca | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Ylenia Della Rocca | Medicine and Health Sciences | Research Excellence Award 

Link University | Italy

Ylenia Della Rocca is an Associate Professor of Histology and Embryology and Physiology whose research profile is internationally recognized in the fields of stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, and advanced in vitro modeling for precision medicine. Her scientific activity is strongly interdisciplinary, integrating histology, embryology, molecular biology, biomaterials, and translational medicine, with a particular focus on induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), extracellular vesicles, and 3D culture systems. Her core research line centers on the reprogramming of autologous human gingival mesenchymal stem cells into iPSCs and their differentiation toward functional cell types, especially cardiomyocytes and neural lineages. This work has led to innovative strategies for cardiac regeneration and personalized regenerative therapies, culminating in a patented non-integrative reprogramming and cardiomyogenic differentiation process. Through advanced molecular and morphological analyses, her studies elucidate the signaling pathways governing cell fate, inflammation, hypoxia response, and extracellular matrix remodeling. A distinctive element of her research is the development and application of organ-on-a-chip and tissue-on-a-chip platforms, including bone-on-a-chip and cardiac models, to study disease mechanisms, environmental pollutant toxicity, and therapeutic responses. Within national and international projects, she has contributed to the creation of physiologically relevant in vitro systems that reduce reliance on animal models while increasing translational relevance. Her work on environmental pollutants, such as bisphenol A and pesticides, has clarified their impact on inflammatory, apoptotic, and epigenetic pathways in stem cells and endothelial models.

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Featured Publications

Shiva Pourshafie | Medicine | Editorial Board Member

Ms. Shiva Pourshafie | Medicine | Editorial Board Member

Tehran University of Medical Sciences | Iran

Ms. Shiva Pourshafie is a dedicated and highly skilled physiotherapist with eight years of progressive clinical experience, specializing in orthopedic, neurology, and infertility-related physiotherapy. Based in Tehran, Iran, she has built a strong reputation for delivering patient-centered care across diverse populations, including children with developmental challenges, adults recovering from injuries, and elderly individuals managing chronic movement disorders. At 28 years old, Shiva already demonstrates advanced clinical maturity, combining professional expertise with exceptional client-facing skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary healthcare teams. She is committed to accurately assessing patient needs, developing individualized treatment plans, and applying evidence-based therapeutic techniques to enhance functional outcomes. Her career objective focuses on advancing her knowledge, expanding her clinical capabilities, and contributing meaningfully to the healthcare system as a forward-thinking physiotherapist. Shiva’s academic foundation is solid and distinguished. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy at Iran University of Medical Sciences (2014–2018) and pursued her Master’s degree at Tehran University of Medical Sciences (2019–2022), where she widened her expertise in advanced rehabilitation sciences. Her academic journey is complemented by continuous professional training, including dry needling, lymphedema evaluation and treatment, fascial distortion model (FDM), manual therapy, and specialized courses in pelvic pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, and sexual dysfunction from North Georgia University and Antwerp University. These certifications significantly enhance her clinical versatility and evidence-based practice. Professionally, Shiva has gained extensive hands-on experience working at Pishgam Physiotherapy Clinic (2017–2025), where she provided specialized treatments in orthopedic rehabilitation and infertility-related therapy. Additionally, she has offered home-based physiotherapy services since 2018, delivering personalized care for patients with neurological and orthopedic conditions. Her achievements include notable contributions to infertility-related physiotherapy and the publication of a peer-reviewed research article in 2025 (DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2025.01.032), reflecting her commitment to academic growth and scientific inquiry. Shiva possesses strong clinical, analytical, and interpersonal skills, including proficiency in rehabilitation equipment, advanced manual therapy techniques, patient evaluation, treatment planning, and therapeutic communication. She is fluent in English — speaking, reading, and writing at an advanced level. Known for her patience, empathy, and professionalism, she consistently demonstrates a compassionate approach when supporting patients throughout their recovery journey. Guided by ambition and continuous learning, Shiva is ready to embrace new professional challenges and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of physiotherapy and patient care.

Proflies: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publication

Effects of eccentric exercises with and without dry needling approaches at the patients with chronic rotator cuff tendinopathy

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
2025-06 | Journal article
Contributors: Shiva Pourshafie; Zinat Ashnagar; Shohreh Jalaie; Siamak Bashardoust Tajali