Meet Valter Longo
Professor Valter D. Longo
Biogerontologist and Cell Biologist
Professor Valter D. Longo is an Italian-American biogerontologist and cell biologist internationally recognized for pioneering aging, fasting, and disease prevention research. He serves as the Edna M. Jones Professor of Gerontology and Biological Sciences and Director of the Longevity Institute at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology. He also leads the Longevity and Cancer Program at the IFOM Institute of Molecular Oncology in Milan, where his work focuses on integrating nutrition-based interventions into clinical care for age-related diseases and cancer.
Beyond the lab, Professor Longo is deeply committed to public health advocacy. He founded the Create Cures Foundation in the U.S. and the Fondazione Valter Longo in Italy to promote accessible, science-backed strategies for healthy aging and disease prevention, especially for vulnerable populations. His research and bestselling books have influenced global health perspectives, dietary guidelines, and integrative approaches to longevity and wellness.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Expertise
Biogerontology
Cell Biology
Nutritional Science
Research Interests
Mechanisms of aging and longevity
Fasting and fasting-mimicking diets
Disease prevention strategies
Stem cell activation and regeneration
Nutrient response genes and cellular protection
Dietary interventions in age-related diseases
Impact of nutrition on neurodegenerative diseases
Academic Credentials
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biochemistry: University of North Texas, 1992
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Biochemistry: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 1997
Postdoctoral Training in Neurobiology: University of Southern California
Professional Affiliations
Edna M. Jones Professor of Gerontology and Biological Sciences, USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
Director, USC Longevity Institute
Director, Longevity and Cancer Program at IFOM Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY
Professor Longo's professional journey began with his undergraduate studies in biochemistry at the University of North Texas, followed by a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from UCLA under the mentorship of Joan Valentine. He completed postdoctoral training in neurobiology with Caleb Finch at USC. In 2000, he joined the faculty of USC's Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, where he established himself as a leading figure in aging research. His work has significantly advanced the understanding of how dietary interventions, particularly fasting and fasting-mimicking diets, can influence aging and disease processes.
Major Contributions
Development of the Fasting-Mimicking Diet (FMD): Professor Longo developed the FMD, a dietary regimen that simulates the effects of fasting while allowing nutrient intake. Clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing risk factors for various diseases and promoting regenerative effects through stem cell activation.
Research on Nutrient Response Genes: His research identified key genetic pathways, such as the TOR-S6K pathway, that regulate aging and how their modulation can protect against diseases like cancer, diabetes, and neurodegeneration.
Authorship of Influential Books: Professor Longo has authored several books, including "The Longevity Diet," which outlines dietary strategies for healthy aging, and "Fasting Cancer," detailing the role of fasting in cancer prevention and treatment.
Establishment of Research Foundations: He founded the Create Cures Foundation in the U.S. and the Fondazione Valter Longo in Italy, both dedicated to promoting research and education on disease prevention and healthy longevity.
Recognition and Awards: Professor Longo has received numerous accolades, including the Nathan Shock Lecture Award from the National Institute on Aging and being named one of TIME magazine's 50 Most Influential People in Health Care in 2018.
Detailed Information on Dr. Russel Reiter
Research Techniques
Caloric restriction studies
Development and clinical trials of fasting-mimicking diets
Genetic and molecular analysis of aging processes
Stem cell research related to regeneration and longevity
Nutritional interventions in disease models
Biochemical assays for cellular protection mechanisms
Notable Works
Books:
Longo, V. D. (2018). The Longevity Diet: Discover the New Science Behind Stem Cell Activation and Regeneration to Slow Aging, Fight Disease, and Optimize Weight. Avery Publishing.
Longo, V. D. (2025). Fasting Cancer: How Fasting and Nutritechnology Are Creating a Revolution in Cancer Prevention and Treatment.
Longo, V. D. (2025). Longevity Starts in Childhood.
Longo, V. D. (2025). At Longevity's Table.
Contact Information
Professional Website: https://valterlongo.com
USC Faculty Profile: https://gero.usc.edu/faculty/longo/
Create Cures Foundation: https://createcures.org
Fondazione Valter Longo: https://www.fondazionevalterlongo.org