Maria Domenica Castellone

Maria Domenica "Mariolina" Castellone (born 3 April 1975) is an Italian academic and politician for the Five Star Movement. In November 2021, she became the first female group leader of the M5S in the Italian Senate.

Early life and education Castellone was born in Villaricca, Italy, She graduated in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Naples Federico II in 2000, where she also earned a PhD in Oncology and Molecular Endocrinology. She then pursued further education in the United States, completing a doctorate in Molecular Oncology.

Career

Academic Since 2006, Castellone has been a researcher at the Institute of Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology of the National Research Council.

The first vote ended in a 36–36 tie, following a disputed ballot. After internal negotiations by Conte, Licheri stepped back, and Castellone was confirmed as leader on 5 November 2021. She became the first female group leader of the Five Star Movement in the Senate.