Zizhen Wu

Zizhen Wu, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurobiology at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). His research focuses on molecular mechanisms underlying mechanotransduction in sensory neurons and cochlear hair cells, with implications for deafness, mechanical pain, and spinal cord injury recovery.

Education:

• PhD in Biomedical Science, University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Science
• Postdoctoral Fellow at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and The Scripps Research Institute

Current work explores mechanosensitive ion channels, molecular regulation of sensory perception, and disease mechanisms in auditory and nociceptive systems. His publications highlight discoveries in TMIE, mTOMT, and KCNQ channel roles in mechanotransduction and neural excitability.

Research spans auditory neuroscience, sensory signal transduction, and therapeutic strategies for mechanosensory disorders. He utilizes interdisciplinary approaches integrating molecular biology, electrophysiology, and behavioral studies.