Observatory on Gender Pharmacology

Biomedical research, pharmacology, and clinical trials have always been oriented toward men, creating gender inequalities in health care. As awareness grows that men and women differ in many ways, gender studies are becoming increasingly important and recognize that women and men, at different stages of life, must be assessed and treated according to gender differences in order to arrive at safer and more appropriate therapeutic decisions in accordance with the general principles of precision medicine.
It is telling that major public and private funding agencies have, in recent years, required research projects to take gender issues into account.
In the field of pharmacology, in particular, significant gender differences are emerging in drug response, the development of adverse drug reactions, and the characteristics of pharmacological targets.
The main objective of the Observatory for Gender Pharmacology is to develop basic and clinical pharmacology research projects aimed at studying the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying gender differences in drug response, identifying gender-specific pharmacological targets, and monitoring treatment efficacy, dosage appropriateness, and the occurrence of adverse effects in women.
Furthermore, the Observatory aims to promote training and information programs designed to increase knowledge and awareness among physicians and future physicians regarding issues related to gender pharmacology.
Scientific Objectives
To promote, support, and strengthen research in the field of gender pharmacology;
To undertake information and education programs to foster knowledge of gender pharmacology, with the aim of promoting the safe and appropriate use of medications;
To provide physicians and all healthcare professionals with information on the various aspects of gender pharmacology essential for promoting more appropriate prescribing practices, in terms of both the efficacy and safety of medications;
Organize in-depth scientific seminars and conferences that facilitate the continuous professional development of researchers and healthcare professionals on the various aspects of gender pharmacology;
Collaborate and create synergies with other centers and associations focused on gender medicine to enhance the effectiveness of outreach and training initiatives.
Scientific Committee
Prof. Mariacristina Missale, Full Professor, Department of Pharmacology, DMMT
Prof. Maurizio Memo, Full Professor, Department of Pharmacology, DMMT
Prof. Chiara Fiorentini, Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology, DMMT
Prof. Sandra Sigala, Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology, DMMT
Prof. Savina Nodari, Associate Professor, Division of Cardiology, DSMC
Prof. Angela Tincani, Full Professor, DSCS
Dr. Daria Bettoni, Pharmacovigilance Sector and Pharmacy Unit Coordinator, ASST Spedali Civili
Dr. Donatella Albini, Executive Councilor for Health, City of Brescia
Dr. Annalisa Voltolini, Company Representative for Gender Medicine and Chair of the Joint Guarantee Committee for Equal Opportunities (CUG), ASST Spedali Civili