Dr. Balestrieri is an award-winning scientist whose pioneering research has made significant contributions to the understanding of macrophages in the context of lung inflammation and asthma. Through her innovative translational studies, she has played a crucial role in bridging fundamental discoveries with clinical applications, resulting in the development of novel therapeutic approaches for asthma.

Former Harvard Medical School Faculty & LMU Munich faculty. 25+ yrs gene/cell-therapy translation; runs a CRO that delivers IND-enabling packages (biodistribution, dosing, safety/tox, efficacy). Biotech founder/CEO; academia-to-biotech transition specialist.

Dr. Bankova is currently a faculty member in the Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Dr. Bankova’s clinical interests include allergic inflammatory diseases, particularly those affecting olfactory function, such as chronic rhinosinusitis, allergic rhinitis, asthma, and anaphylaxis.