Manuel Valenzuela-Valderrama, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Universidad Central de Chile Manuel Valenzuela-Valderrama is a biomedical researcher specializing in host–pathogen interactions and the molecular mechanisms underlying Helicobacter pylori-associated diseases. His work focuses on how bacterial factors—particularly outer membrane vesicles—trigger inflammatory and cellular responses in gastric and neural tissues. He also explores the potential of natural compounds to counteract these effects and prevent disease progression. His recent publication, “Helicobacter pylori outer membrane vesicles induce astrocyte reactivity through nuclear factor-κappa B activation and cause neuronal damage in vivo in a murine model,” highlights the neuroinflammatory consequences of chronic H. pylori infection and expands the understanding of its systemic impact. – Citations: ~2,075 (Google Scholar)

1. Host–pathogen interactions Mechanisms by which Helicobacter pylori and its factors, such as outer membrane vesicles, affect gastric and neural cells. 2. Inflammation, cellular responses, and carcinogenesis Molecular pathways of inflammatory activation, including NF-κB, in response to bacterial infection, and their role in gastric carcinogenesis. 3. Natural compounds with therapeutic potential Study of molecules to mitigate pathogen-induced inflammation, cellular damage, and cancer-related processes. 4. Gastric disease and extra-gastric effects Systemic effects of chronic H. pylori infection and its association with extra-gastric diseases. 5. Mechanisms of cancer resistance Investigation of cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying resistance to cancer therapies.