Charles A. Thornton

Charles A. Thornton, M.D. is a Professor in the Department of Neurology at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, holding the Saunders Family Distinguished Professorship in Neuromuscular Research. He specializes in neurogenetic disorders, particularly myotonic dystrophy (DM1/DM2), focusing on ion channel dysfunction and RNA-based therapeutics. His work includes developing antisense oligonucleotides to correct chloride channel defects and identifying biomarkers like the Splice Index for disease progression.

• Education: MD from University of Iowa (1981)
• Fellowships: Neuromuscular Medicine (U of Rochester, 1989–1992)
• Research Lab: Investigates RNA toxicity mechanisms, channelopathies, and therapeutic strategies for DM1/DM2

Thornton has authored over 170 publications and holds patents on antisense therapies and splice biomarkers. His awards include the Carrell-Krusen Award (2013) and the Hans Steinert Award (2011).