Luca Baldelli MD

Neurology Consultant and Assistant Professor (Ricercatore Universitario a tempo determinato tipo A - junior)
Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences
Alma Mater Studiorum
University of Bologna

Clinician
IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna

Editorial Board Member since 2024: Sleep Disorders

Dr. Baldelli is also a PhD candidate under Professors Pietro Cortelli and Federica Provini, focusing on the neurophysiology of sleep and its interplay with neurodegenerative diseases.

Dr. Baldelli’s research primarily explores the intersection of Sleep Medicine and Movement Disorders, particularly the role of isolated REM sleep behavior disorder as a prodromal marker for α-synucleinopathies such as Parkinson disease and related dementias. His studies investigate the progression and phenoconversion of isolated REM sleep behavior disorder to neurodegenerative diseases, utilizing advanced methodologies, including videopolysomnography and multimodal biomarkers. He has contributed significantly to the understanding of isolated REM sleep behavior disorder's clinical and molecular markers, including autonomic dysfunction and epigenetic changes.

Central to his PhD project is the evaluation of deep brain stimulation on the sleep-wake cycle in Parkinson disease. Employing subthalamic local field potential analysis, Dr. Baldelli investigates deep brain stimulation's effects on sleep architecture and circadian rhythms, aiming to enhance therapeutic strategies for Parkinson disease-related sleep disturbances. His research also delves into the neurophysiological interplay between sleep and the autonomic nervous system, with a focus on rare conditions like Fatal Familial Insomnia.

Dr. Baldelli serves as the Treasurer-Elect on the Administrative Board of the International REM Sleep Behavior Disorder Study Group (IRBDSG) and coordinates working groups within this organization. He is also an elected representative of Residents and Research Fellows within the Scientific Panel on Sleep-Wake Disorders of the European Academy of Neurology (EAN), where he leads eCommunication initiatives. Additionally, he contributes to the Leg Movement Detection Task Force of the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG), focusing on polysomnographic scoring for database standardization.

With over 30 peer-reviewed publications, numerous invited presentations at national and international conferences, and involvement in several multicenter research projects and clinical trials, Dr. Baldelli is recognized for his expertise in sleep medicine and its role in neurodegenerative disease research. His work integrates clinical practice and innovative research to advance diagnostic frameworks and therapeutic approaches for sleep-related and neurodegenerative disorders.