Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Testicular Axis Date: December 17, 2025 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Hours: 3 Instructor: Andrea Isidori – Professor Program: Regulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–testicular (HPT) axis and pathophysiology of hypogonadism. Defects at one or more levels of the HPT axis may lead to primary or secondary hypogonadism. Developmental changes of the HPT axis from fetal life to adulthood are essential for understanding hypogonadism pathophysiology. This seminar reviews maturation and neuroendocrine regulation of the HPT axis, discussing the main congenital and acquired causes of male hypogonadism at both the hypothalamic–pituitary level (secondary hypogonadism) and the testicular level (primary hypogonadism). Final assessment: Oral examination Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism Date: January 14, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Hours: 3 Instructor: Daniele Gianfrilli – Professor Program: Definition, epidemiology and clinical relevance of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Physiology of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, hormonal regulation and feedback. Congenital and acquired causes. Kallmann syndrome and other congenital forms: genetics and clinical presentation. Diagnostic approach including clinical signs, laboratory testing and imaging. Clinical implications for fertility, metabolism and bone health. Therapeutic options including testosterone replacement, gonadotropins and fertility strategies. Long‑term management challenges and future research directions. Final assessment: Oral examination Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome Date: February 4, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Hours: 3 Instructor: Francesco Lombardo – Professor Program: Definition and classification of androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS). Genetic and biochemical bases with focus on androgen receptor mutations. Pathophysiology and impact on sexual development. Clinical classification into complete, partial and mild forms. Diagnostic work‑up. Medical and surgical management. Psychosocial aspects including gender identity and psychological support. Fertility and reproductive options. Ethical and legal considerations and future research developments. Final assessment: Oral examination Transsexualism Date: 18 February, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Hours: 1 Instructor: Francesco Lombardo – Professor Program: Definition and socio‑cultural aspects of transsexualism. Biological aspects of gender identity development. Hormonal and surgical transition pathways. Effects and management of hormone therapy. Psychological support and mental health. Legal and social aspects including rights and document changes. Role of healthcare professionals and future challenges. Final assessment: Oral examination Spermatogenesis and the Y Chromosome Date: March 4, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Hours: 2 Instructor: Donatella Paoli – Professor Program: Overview of spermatogenesis. Evolutionary history, structure and function of the Y chromosome. Critical Y‑linked genes (SRY, AZF regions). Genetic disorders affecting the Y chromosome and fertility implications. Genetic diagnostic techniques and future therapeutic perspectives. Final assessment: Oral examination New Classification of Human Spermatogenesis Date: March 18, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Duration: 3 hours Course instructor: Francesco Lombardo – Professor Program: Overview of spermatogenesis: process, traditional phases, and clinical relevance. Historical evolution of spermatogenesis classification systems. Rationale for the new classification: recent scientific advances and limitations of previous systems. Description of the new classification: criteria, categories, and main differences. Molecular and cellular aspects: markers and cellular interactions. Clinical implications for the diagnosis and management of male infertility. Analytical methods and advanced technologies. Impact on research and fertility therapies. Strengths and limitations. Future perspectives and research directions. Final assessment: Oral examination Varicocele and Spermatogenesis Expected date: April 15, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Duration: 3 hours Course instructor: Daniele Gianfrilli – Professor Program: Introduction to varicocele: definition, prevalence, and impact on fertility. Anatomy and pathophysiology: mechanisms of development and progression. Effects on spermatogenesis: thermal, oxidative, and hormonal mechanisms. Diagnostic approach: physical examination, Doppler ultrasound, and imaging. Relationship between varicocele grade and spermatogenic alterations: current evidence. Treatment options: surgical approaches (ligation, embolisation) and non-surgical strategies. Effectiveness on fertility outcomes. Post-treatment monitoring. Controversies and indications for treatment. Future perspectives: biomarkers, innovative therapies, and personalised management. Final assessment: Oral examination Male Infertility and Vitamin D Expected date: April 15, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Duration: 1 hour Course instructor: Andrea Isidori – Professor Program: Overview of male infertility: definition, epidemiology, and common causes. Vitamin D: synthesis, sources, and optimal levels. Interaction between vitamin D and male reproductive function: underlying mechanisms. Evidence on the association between vitamin D status and male infertility. Semen quality parameters: concentration, motility, and morphology. Supplementation: recommendations, dosing, and clinical considerations. Effects of vitamin D deficiency on hormonal balance and spermatogenesis. Therapeutic and nutritional strategies. Discussion of clinical cases. Current challenges and future research perspectives. Final assessment: Oral examination Pathogenesis of Diabetes Expected date: May 6, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Duration: 3 hours Course instructor: Raffaella Buzzetti – Professor Program: Introduction to diabetes: classification, epidemiology, and socio-health impact. Pathophysiological basis of glucose regulation. Pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes: autoimmunity, β-cell destruction, genetic and environmental factors. Pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes: insulin resistance, β-cell dysfunction, and risk factors. Other forms of diabetes: MODY, gestational diabetes, and LADA. Role of environment and lifestyle. Disease progression and acute and chronic complications. Experimental models: in vitro and in vivo. Pathogenesis-based therapeutic approaches: prevention and personalised treatments. Current challenges and future directions. Final assessment: Oral examination Endocrine Disruptors Expected date: May 27, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Duration: 3 hours Course instructor: Carla Lubrano – Professor Program: Definition, classification, and environmental sources of endocrine disruptors. Mechanisms of action: hormone receptors and signalling pathways. Effects on reproduction, development, and metabolism. Impact on fertility and fetal/neonatal development. Associations with obesity, diabetes, and endocrine disorders. Epidemiological studies: key findings and limitations. Assessment methodologies: in vitro, in vivo, and biomonitoring approaches. Regulations and policies aimed at reducing exposure. Individual and population-level prevention strategies. Future trends: emerging compounds and holistic approaches. Final assessment: Oral examination Genetics of Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease Expected date: June 10, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Duration: 3 hours Course instructor: Ernesto Maddaloni – Professor Program: Fundamental concepts and clinical relevance of the genetics of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Genetics of type 1 diabetes: HLA, autoimmunity, genetic and environmental factors. Genetics of type 2 diabetes: polymorphisms, gene–environment interactions, and susceptibility genes. Genetic determinants of diabetic complications. Genetics of cardiovascular diseases: atherosclerosis, hypertension, and cardiomyopathies. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and clinical implications. Pharmacogenetics and therapeutic personalisation. Genetic screening and prevention. Ethical aspects: privacy and psychosocial implications. Future perspectives: gene therapy, genome editing, and precision medicine. Final assessment: Oral examination Insulin Secretion and the Endocrine Pancreas Expected date: June 24, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Duration: 3 hours Course instructor: Raffaella Buzzetti – Professor Program: Structure and function of the endocrine pancreas and its role in metabolism. Pancreatic β-cells: mechanisms and regulation of insulin secretion. Insulin physiology: synthesis, secretion, action, and metabolism. Molecular and cellular pathways of insulin secretion. Disorders of insulin regulation: hyperinsulinaemia and insulin deficiency. Relationship with diabetes mellitus and β-cell dysfunction. Experimental approaches: in vitro and in vivo models. Therapies targeting β-cell function: novel drugs and replacement strategies. Impact of diet and lifestyle. Future research and innovations. Final assessment: Oral examination Biology of Glucocorticoids Expected date: July 8, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Duration: 3 hours Course instructor: Riccardo Pofi – Professor Program: Chemical structure and biosynthesis of glucocorticoids and their physiological role. Mechanisms of action: receptors, signal transduction, and genomic effects. Metabolic effects on glucose, protein, and lipid metabolism. Role in the stress response. Effects on the immune system. Dysregulation: Cushing syndrome and adrenal insufficiency. Therapeutic use: benefits and risks. Glucocorticoid resistance: causes and management. Research methodologies: in vitro studies, animal models, and clinical investigations. Future challenges: novel therapies and personalised approaches. Final assessment: Oral examination Cushing Disease Expected date: July 15, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Duration: 3 hours Course instructor: Andrea Isidori – Professor Program: Definition, aetiology, and epidemiology. Pathophysiology of hypercortisolism and pituitary involvement. Clinical signs and symptoms: central obesity, violaceous striae, and others. Diagnostic work-up: laboratory testing, dexamethasone suppression tests, and imaging. Differential diagnosis with Cushing syndrome: pituitary versus ectopic or iatrogenic causes. Therapeutic approaches: pituitary surgery, radiotherapy, and pharmacological treatment. Management of comorbidities: hypertension, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Follow-up and recurrence. Innovations: novel drugs and targeted therapies. Patient education and support. Final assessment: Oral examination Advanced Diagnostic Technologies Applied to Clinical and Basic Research Expected date: September 9, 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Duration: 3 hours Course instructor: Elisabetta Ferretti – Professor Program: Overview of advanced diagnostic technologies in research and clinical practice. Next- generation sequencing (NGS): principles and applications. Advanced imaging: MRI, CT, PET, and microscopy. Proteomics (mass spectrometry-based): biomarkers and expression profiling. Genome editing technologies: CRISPR-Cas9, ZFN, and TALEN. Bioinformatics and modelling. Molecular diagnostics: PCR, microarrays, and hybridisation techniques. Single-cell technologies. Nanotechnologies for drug delivery and imaging. Ethical and regulatory aspects: informed consent, privacy, and quality standards. Future perspectives: integration and personalised medicine. Final assessment: Oral examination Seminars, Lab Meetings, and Journal Club Expected date: December 2025 – October 2026 Type: Part of the training Program Delivery mode: Seminar Duration: 20 hours Course instructors: Faculty members and PhD candidates Program: Seminars by external experts on key topics in endocrinology. Student presentations (research projects, clinical cases, thematic reviews). Laboratory meetings focusing on research progress (advances, experimental data, methodologies). Journal club with critical appraisal of scientific articles (methodology, results, and implications). Final assessment: Oral examination Pagina 1 di 23Educational Program – Year I (December 2025 – October 2026)Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Testicular AxisExpected date: December 2025Type: Part of the training ProgramDelivery mode: SeminarHours: 3Instructor: Andrea M. Isidori – ProfessorProgram: Regulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–testicular (HPT) axis andpathophysiology of hypogonadism. Defects at one or more levels of the HPT axis maylead to primary or secondary hypogonadism. Developmental changes of the HPT axisfrom fetal life to adulthood are essential for understanding hypogonadismpathophysiology. This seminar reviews maturation and neuroendocrine regulation of theHPT axis, discussing the main congenital and acquired causes of male hypogonadismat both the hypothalamic–pituitary level (secondary hypogonadism) and the testicularlevel (primary hypogonadism).Final assessment: Oral examinationHypogonadotropic HypogonadismExpected date: January 2026Type: Part of the training ProgramDelivery mode: SeminarHours: 3Instructor: Daniele Gianfrilli – ProfessorProgram: Definition, epidemiology and clinical relevance of hypogonadotropichypogonadism. Physiology of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, hormonalregulation and feedback. Congenital and acquired causes. Kallmann syndrome andother congenital forms: genetics and clinical presentation. Diagnostic approachincluding clinical signs, laboratory testing and imaging. Clinical implications for fertility,metabolism and bone health. Therapeutic options including testosterone replacement,gonadotropins and fertility strategies. Long‑term management challenges and futureresearch directions.Final assessment: Oral examinationAndrogen Insensitivity SyndromeExpected date: February 2026Type: Part of the training ProgramDelivery mode: SeminarHours: 3 Pagina 2 di 23Instructor: Francesco Lombardo – ProfessorProgram: Definition and classification of androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS). Geneticand biochemical bases with focus on androgen receptor mutations. Pathophysiologyand impact on sexual development. Clinical classification into complete, partial and mildforms. Diagnostic work‑up. Medical and surgical management. Psychosocial aspectsincluding gender identity and psychological support. Fertility and reproductive options.Ethical and legal considerations and future research developments.Final assessment: Oral examinationTranssexualismExpected date: February 2026Type: Part of the training ProgramDelivery mode: SeminarHours: 1Instructor: Francesco Lombardo – ProfessorProgram: Definition and socio‑cultural aspects of transsexualism. Biological aspects ofgender identity development. Hormonal and surgical transition pathways. Effects andmanagement of hormone therapy. Psychological support and mental health. Legal andsocial aspects including rights and document changes. Role of healthcare professionalsand future challenges.Final assessment: Oral examinationSpermatogenesis and the Y ChromosomeExpected date: March 2026Type: Part of the training ProgramDelivery mode: SeminarHours: 2Instructor: Donatella Paoli – ProfessorProgram: Overview of spermatogenesis. Evolutionary history, structure and function ofthe Y chromosome. Critical Y‑linked genes (SRY, AZF regions). Genetic disordersaffecting the Y chromosome and fertility implications. Genetic diagnostic techniques andfuture therapeutic perspectives.Final assessment: Oral examinationNew Classification of Human SpermatogenesisExpected date: March 2026Type: Part of the training ProgramDelivery mode: Seminar Pagina 3 di 23Duration: 3 hoursCourse instructor: Francesco Lombardo – ProfessorProgram:Overview of spermatogenesis: process, traditional phases, and clinical relevance.Historical evolution of spermatogenesis classification systems. Rationale for the newclassification: recent scientific advances and limitations of previous systems.Description of the new classification: criteria, categories, and main differences.Molecular and cellular aspects: markers and cellular interactions. Clinical implicationsfor the diagnosis and management of male infertility. Analytical methods and advancedtechnologies. Impact on research and fertility therapies. Strengths and limitations.Future perspectives and research directions.Final assessment: Oral examinationVaricocele and SpermatogenesisExpected date: April 2026Type: Part of the training ProgramDelivery mode: SeminarDuration: 3 hoursCourse instructor: Daniele Gianfrilli – ProfessorProgram:Introduction to varicocele: definition, prevalence, and impact on fertility. Anatomy andpathophysiology: mechanisms of development and progression. Effects onspermatogenesis: thermal, oxidative, and hormonal mechanisms. Diagnostic approach:physical examination, Doppler ultrasound, and imaging. Relationship betweenvaricocele grade and spermatogenic alterations: current evidence. Treatment options:surgical approaches (ligation, embolisation) and non-surgical strategies. Effectivenesson fertility outcomes. Post-treatment monitoring. Controversies and indications fortreatment. Future perspectives: biomarkers, innovative therapies, and personalisedmanagement.Final assessment: Oral examinationMale Infertility and Vitamin DExpected date: April 2026Type: Part of the training ProgramDelivery mode: SeminarDuration: 1 hourCourse instructor: Andrea Isidori – ProfessorProgram:Overview of male infertility: definition, epidemiology, and common causes. Vitamin D: Pagina 4 di 23synthesis, sources, and optimal levels. Interaction between vitamin D and malereproductive function: underlying mechanisms. Evidence on the association betweenvitamin D status and male infertility. Semen quality parameters: concentration, motility,and morphology. Supplementation: recommendations, dosing, and clinicalconsiderations. Effects of vitamin D deficiency on hormonal balance andspermatogenesis. Therapeutic and nutritional strategies. Discussion of clinical cases.Current challenges and future research perspectives.Final assessment: Oral examinationPathogenesis of DiabetesExpected date: May 2026Type: Part of the training ProgramDelivery mode: SeminarDuration: 3 hoursCourse instructor: Raffaella Buzzetti – ProfessorProgram:Introduction to diabetes: classification, epidemiology, and socio-health impact.Pathophysiological basis of glucose regulation. Pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes:autoimmunity, β-cell destruction, genetic and environmental factors. Pathogenesis oftype 2 diabetes: insulin resistance, β-cell dysfunction, and risk factors. Other forms ofdiabetes: MODY, gestational diabetes, and LADA. Role of environment and lifestyle.Disease progression and acute and chronic complications. Experimental models: in vitroand in vivo. Pathogenesis-based therapeutic approaches: prevention and personalisedtreatments. Current challenges and future directions.Final assessment: Oral examinationEndocrine DisruptorsExpected date: May 2026Type: Part of the training ProgramDelivery mode: SeminarDuration: 3 hoursCourse instructor: Carla Lubrano – ProfessorProgram:Definition, classification, and environmental sources of endocrine disruptors.Mechanisms of action: hormone receptors and signalling pathways. Effects onreproduction, development, and metabolism. Impact on fertility and fetal/neonataldevelopment. Associations with obesity, diabetes, and endocrine disorders.Epidemiological studies: key findings and limitations. Assessment methodologies: invitro, in vivo, and biomonitoring approaches. Regulations and policies aimed at reducing