Felix Nitschke

Dr. Felix Nitschke is an Assistant Professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center in the Departments of Pediatrics and Biochemistry. He investigates brain glycogen metabolism and its role in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Lafora disease (LD), a severe form of childhood-onset epilepsy. His work combines biochemical expertise with therapeutic innovation, focusing on enzyme replacement platforms and gene therapy.

• Education: Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Potsdam, Germany (2013)
• Postdoctoral Training: Gene Therapy Lab at The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Canada

Dr. Nitschke’s research reshaped understanding of LD pathogenesis by identifying abnormal glycogen structure—not hyperphosphorylation—as the critical disease driver. His lab explores:

• Mechanisms ensuring glycogen solubility
• Development of non-viral enzyme replacement therapies
• Therapeutic strategies for rare diseases involving polyglucosan accumulation

His publications span neuroscience, biochemistry, and plant science, reflecting interdisciplinary expertise. A textbook on polyglucan metabolism integrates plant starch and glycogen enzymology. The Nitschke Lab employs cutting-edge techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 and AAV gene therapy, collaborating with institutions worldwide to translate discoveries into treatments.