Dr. Valter Longo is internationally recognized as one of the leading researchers in the biology of aging and longevity.
He is Professor of Gerontology and Biological Sciences at the University of Southern California (USC), where he directs the USC Longevity Institute. In Milan, he leads the Longevity and Cancer Program at IFOM, one of Europe’s foremost molecular oncology research centers.
His pioneering work has identified molecular pathways that regulate aging and contributed to the development of the fasting-mimicking diet (FMD), a nutritional program shown to promote cellular regeneration, extend healthspan, and support disease prevention and treatment.
Education & Credentials
- B.S. in Biochemistry – University of North Texas
- Ph.D. in Biochemistry – University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Postdoctoral Training in Neurobiology of Aging – University of Southern California
Professional Experience & Contributions
- Identified genetic and molecular mechanisms that regulate aging across species
- Developed fasting-mimicking diet protocols currently studied in clinical trials worldwide
- Demonstrated the impact of nutrition on stem cell regeneration, cancer therapy support, and chronic disease prevention
- Published extensively in high-impact journals, advancing preventive and longevity medicine
Areas of Expertise
- Molecular biology of aging
- Nutritional interventions for longevity
- Stem cell regeneration and fasting research
Awards & Honors
- Nathan Shock Lecture Award – National Institute on Aging (NIH)
- Vincent Cristofalo Rising Star Award in Aging Research – American Federation for Aging Research
- Glenn Award for Research in the Biology of Aging
- Named among Time magazine’s “50 Most Influential People in Health Care”
- Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher (2021–2024)
Leadership & Affiliations
- Founder – Fondazione Valter Longo Onlus (Milan)
- Founder – Create Cures Foundation (Los Angeles)
- Donates all book royalties and consulting income to fund research and education in nutrition, longevity, and disease prevention
Publications & Media
Author of bestselling books The Longevity Diet, At Longevity’s Table, Longevity Starts in Childhood, and Fasting Cancer.
Featured in international documentaries and media, including Fasting and The Longevity Revolution.
