Find Academic Supervisors

• Chromosomal Instability (CIN)
• DNA Damage Response (DDR)
• Cancer Therapy
• +3 more

Lilian Kabeche, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry at Yale University and a member of the Cancer Biology Institute at Yale School of Medicine. She joined Yale in 2019. Her research focuses on the interplay between chromosomal instability (CIN) and DNA damage response (DDR) defects in cancer, with a goal to develop novel cancer therapies using DDR kinase inhibitors. Dr. Kabeche’s lab investigates non-canonical roles of DDR proteins in mitosis and interphase, particularly the ATR kinase’s functions in maintaining genome stability. Education: B.S. in Microbiology and Immunology (University of Miami, 2007); Ph.D. in Biochemistry (Dartmouth College, 2012); Postdoctoral training in Lee Zou’s lab at Harvard University (2012–2019). Research Interests: Chromosomal instability, DNA damage response pathways, cancer therapy, epigenetic regulation of centromeres, and mechanisms of genome stability. Her work has revealed novel roles of ATR in mitosis and centromere maintenance, shifting paradigms about DDR pathway functions. Recent Articles: Highlights include studies on ATR’s non-canonical roles in mitosis, Chk2-PLK1 pathways, and TRPA1 channel dysfunction. These studies underscore the lab’s focus on mechanisms linking DDR to genomic instability and therapeutic strategies. Labs/Teams: Kabeche Lab at Yale West Campus Advanced Biosciences Center, collaborating widely with institutions like Mass General Hospital and Dartmouth College. The lab emphasizes fostering an inclusive, collaborative environment for early-career scientists.

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Molecular Biology
• +3 more

Fleur Vansenne is a researcher at the University Medical Center Groningen , Department of Genetics, focusing on interdisciplinary studies bridging Genetics , Neuroscience , and Molecular Biology . Her work addresses neurodevelopmental disorders, movement disorders, and genetic mechanisms in Dutch populations . Research Interests include intellectual disability , missense variants , developmental coordination disorders , and ataxia . She investigates how genetic mutations (e.g., NAE1, KCNH5, TRIO) contribute to overlapping neurological and metabolic pathologies , with implications for diagnostic genotyping and therapeutic strategies . Publications highlight her expertise in genetic repeat expansions , neurogenetics , and clinical-genetic correlations . Notable trends include analyses of late-onset ataxia , epilepsy phenotypes , and developmental motor dysfunction , often in collaboration with international teams.

Christian LohrView profile

Professor

• Neurophysiology
• Developmental Biology
• Cell Biology
• +5 more

Prof. Dr. Christian Lohr serves as a Deputy Head of the Department of Neurophysiology within the University of Hamburg 's Faculty of Mathematics, Computer Science and Natural Sciences. His research focuses on neurophysiological mechanisms in both invertebrate and mammalian systems, with an emphasis on ion transport, calcium dynamics, and astrocyte function. Education: Diploma in Biology (1995), Doctorate in Biology (1998), Habilitation in Zoology and Neurobiology (2005) Academic Leadership: W2 Professorship (2010), Head of Developmental Neurobiology (2005-2008), Head of Intracellular Calcium Dynamics group (2008-2010) His research program spans three major areas: (1) Neurophysiology of ion transporters investigating Na,K-ATPase β-subunits in insect development and septate junction formation; (2) Astrocyte signaling mechanisms examining purinergic receptors and cAMP pathways in neurological diseases; and (3) Mechanotransduction studying Piezo channels in Drosophila nephrocytes. Recent publications demonstrate his interdisciplinary approach combining molecular biology with biomedical engineering. Key article trends show: Cell biology of membrane transporters (2023-2025) Neuroinflammatory signaling pathways (2023) Computational imaging applications (2024) Comparative physiology between insects and mammals (2023-2025)

Keith NehrkeView profile

Professor

• Integrative Physiology
• Molecular Biology
• Mitochondrial Physiology
• +3 more

Dr. Keith Nehrke is a Professor in the Department of Medicine, Nephrology at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. His research integrates physiology and genetics to study molecular mechanisms linking bioenergetic responses to metabolic plasticity, survival, and behavior in whole organisms. PhD in Biochemistry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry Postdoctoral training at the Center for Oral Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center Dr. Nehrke's research focuses on mitochondrial ion flux, proteostasis, and trans-organelle signaling pathways that regulate hypoxic sensitivity. He utilizes genetic model organisms like Caenorhabditis elegans and translates findings to mammalian models such as mice. His work emphasizes collaboration and innovative tools like CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing. Recent studies from his lab highlight connections between tau phosphorylation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and Alzheimer's disease, alongside metabolic remodeling in corneal fibrosis. Publications span disciplines including neuroscience, cell biology, and ophthalmology. His laboratory explores how mitochondrial quality control mechanisms and potassium channels contribute to cardioprotection and stress response. Collaborative efforts include investigations into ischemic preconditioning and age-related metabolic changes.

Victor Ruiz-VelascoView profile

Professor

• Calcium Channels
• Baroreflex
• Opioid Receptors
• +6 more

Victor Ruiz-Velasco is a Professor at Penn State University with dual appointments in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine and Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics . He also serves as Associate Vice Chair for Basic Science Research and is a core member of the Penn State Neuroscience Institute. Research spans 1994-present with 71 publications and 6 major grants Active in calcium channel biophysics , opioid receptor signaling , and autonomic reflex modulation Key research themes include: G protein modulation of ion channels in neurons and smooth muscle cells ASIC channel interactions with opioid peptides in pain and cardiovascular regulation Biophysical characterization of NaV1.8/NaV1.9 polymorphisms in pain syndromes Recent publications (2024-2025) focus on: Cannabis receptor pharmacology in cancer cell death Ghrelin's role in visceral sensory neuron function ASIC3 knockout models for exercise reflex regulation Major grant funding from: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (2017-2022, 2021-2024) National Institute on Drug Abuse (2009-2014) National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (2010-2021)

• Gene Therapy
• RNA Editing
• Childhood Epilepsy
• +5 more

Dr. Rajvinder Karda is an Associate Professor in Gene Therapy at the Institute for Women's Health, University College London (UCL). She holds a position in the Maternal & Fetal Medicine department and maintains her office at 86-96 Chenies Mews, London, WC1E 6HX. Her academic career at UCL has progressed steadily from Senior Research Fellow (2020-2022), to Lecturer (2022-2023), and currently Associate Professor (since October 2023). She also serves as Non-Clinical Lecturer in Gene Therapy at UCL. Dr. Karda completed her Doctor of Philosophy in Gene Transfer and Neuroscience at Imperial College London in 2016, following a Master of Research from University College London in 2011 and a BSc (Hons) from King's College London in 2010. Her research focuses primarily on developing pre-clinical gene therapy and RNA editing treatments for childhood epilepsy, with special emphasis on Dravet Syndrome. She also collaborates on pre-clinical gene therapy projects for rare childhood metabolic disorders, particularly those involving mitochondrial dysfunction. Analysis of Dr. Karda's recent publication record reveals a strong emphasis on AAV vector development and optimization for neurological conditions and metabolic disorders. Her work demonstrates particular expertise in treating Dravet Syndrome through multiple approaches including RNA editing, natural antisense transcript targeting, and NaV1.1 channel modulation. She has also made significant contributions to gene therapy for mitochondrial disorders affecting the liver, including Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex Deficiency and deoxyguanosine kinase deficiency. Board member of the British Gene and Cell Therapy Society Scientific Advisory Committee member for Dravet Foundation Charity (Spain) Scientific Advisory Committee member for Cure DHDDS Charity (UK) Dr. Karda has secured substantial research funding as Principal Investigator from MRC DPFS, LifeArc, GOSH Charity, Dravet Syndrome UK Charity, Cure DHDDS charity, and venture capital funds. As an educator, she co-leads modules on Basic Genetics and Technology and Fertility and Infertility: Science and Society at the Institute for Women's Health, and provides lectures on Molecular Aspects of Cell and Gene Therapy at the Institute for Child Health and Genetic Therapies for Neurological Diseases at the Institute of Neurology.

Brant IsaksonView profile

Professor

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Microcirculation
• Metabolism
• +4 more

Brant Isakson is a Professor in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics at the University of Virginia. He directs the Isakson Lab, which investigates microvascular dysfunction in cardiovascular diseases, leveraging genetically modified models and clinical studies. His PhD was obtained from the University of Wyoming. Research interests focus on translational cardiovascular biology , particularly: Pannexin channels in vascular signaling and inflammation Endothelial-adipocyte communication in metabolic disorders Nitric oxide dynamics in hemodynamics Mechanisms of hypertension and ischemic injury Recent articles (2023–2024) emphasize metabolic-vascular crosstalk , with recurring themes in pannexin pharmacology, mitochondrial dysfunction in obesity, and redox regulation. Publications frequently integrate molecular, cellular, and in vivo approaches to bridge basic mechanisms with therapeutic innovation. No awards or trainee details are documented. The Isakson Lab specializes in vascular physiology techniques, including pressure myography, genetic models, and clinical hemodynamic assessments.

• Neuroscience
• Neurophysiology
• Autonomic Nervous System
• +3 more

Kevin Latchford is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Anesthesia at McMaster University . His academic work focuses on the neurophysiological mechanisms of angiotensin in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus and their implications for autonomic dysfunction and stroke therapy. Research Interests: Dr. Latchford's research spans central autonomic regulation , neuronal excitability , and therapeutic interventions for neurological disorders . His publications highlight intersections between neuroscience , anesthesiology , and stroke treatment , with a focus on ion conductance, neurochemical signaling, and hypothalamic function. Publications Trends: Dr. Latchford's work over the past two decades reveals a consistent emphasis on angiotensin's role in autonomic regulation (2000–2008) and clinical translation, including stroke therapy (2001) and institutional policies for anesthetic drugs like Sugammadex (2020). His studies integrate cellular neurophysiology with applied clinical research .

Alejandra Sierra LopezView profile

Researcher

• Neuroscience
• Neuroimaging
• Neurotrauma
• +3 more

Alejandra Sierra Lopez is a Research Director at the A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences , University of Eastern Finland, Faculty of Health Sciences. Her work focuses on neuroimaging , traumatic brain injury , and epileptogenesis using advanced MRI and electron microscopy techniques. Research Highlights: Developed multiscale imaging frameworks combining MRI and EM for CNS analysis Validated white matter metrics through 3D ultrastructural correlation Explored lysosomal dysfunction in neuroinflammation from air pollution Created gACSON/DeepACSON software for automated axon segmentation Methodological Innovations: Nonparametric diffusion-relaxation modeling Orientation-selective DBS for circuit modulation SWIFT MRI for calcification detection Steerable3D ImageJ plugin for neurovascular segmentation Key Collaborations: Coordinated Neuro-Innovation (2021–2026) and NOVEL (2024–2029) projects Collaborated with University of Oulu , University of Helsinki , and University of Iowa researchers Contributed to MRI-histology correlations in epilepsy and TBI Integrated Fourier-based analysis and Multimodal MRI approaches

Florian MerkleView profile

Associate Professor

• Neurological Diseases
• Obesity
• Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Biology
• +6 more

Dr. Florian Merkle is an Associate Professor at the University of Cambridge in the Department of Pharmacology , where he leads the Merkle Laboratory . His work bridges human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) biology , neurogenetics , and mouse modeling to investigate mechanisms of obesity , neurodegenerative diseases , and hypothalamic dysfunction . He is affiliated with the MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit , Wellcome Trust , and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative . Academic Rank: Associate Professor Key Affiliations: University of Cambridge, MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Chan Zuckerberg Initiative Research Interests Dr. Merkle’s research focuses on human-specific mechanisms of disease using hPSC-derived hypothalamic neurons and animal models. His team employs CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing , single-cell transcriptomics , high-content imaging , and mTORC1 signaling analysis to study: Cellular models of obesity and diabetes to identify novel anti-obesity drugs Shared mechanisms between metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s, prion diseases) Genetic stability of hPSCs during long-term culture and differentiation Scientific Awards His accolades include: New York Stem Cell Foundation – Robertson Investigator Sir Henry Dale Fellow (Wellcome Trust & Royal Society) Ben Barres Investigator (Chan Zuckerberg Institute) Academy of Medical Sciences Springboard scheme Students & Collaborations Dr. Merkle co-supervises PhD student Pratik Koppikar (with NIH’s Michael Ward) and collaborates with experts in neuroscience (e.g., Giles Yeo, Giovanna Mallucci) and metabolism (e.g., Stephen O’Rahilly, Clemence Blouet). His lab is funded by the Royal Society , Wellcome Trust , and Chan Zuckerberg Initiative . Labs & Techniques The Merkle Lab utilizes hPSC differentiation , machine learning-assisted behavioral phenotyping , multi-omics integration , and in vivo physiology to bridge genetic data with organismic phenotypes . Their work aims to develop safe neuroprotective strategies and improve reproducibility in stem cell research .

Helle JørgensenView profile

Research Fellow

• Vascular Biology
• Atherosclerosis
• Epigenetics
• +3 more

Dr. Helle Jørgensen is a British Heart Foundation Senior Basic Science Research Fellow at the Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Heart & Lung Research Institute , University of Cambridge. Her research focuses on vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) plasticity and heterogeneity in cardiovascular diseases, particularly atherosclerosis. Key Affiliations: Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Heart & Lung Research Institute Research Interests She investigates how VSMCs transition from a contractile state to proliferative/migratory phenotypes in disease contexts, using: Single-cell transcriptomics Lineage tracing Epigenetic profiling Genetic disease models Her work has revealed clonal expansion patterns in atherosclerotic lesions and characterized disease-specific VSMC subpopulations. Scientific Contributions 2025: Identified novel mechanosensitive pathways in VSMC expansion 2024: Elucidated epigenetic mechanisms regulating VSMC phenotypic switching 2023: Validated network-based approaches to target disease-associated VSMC regulators 2022: Characterized oligoclonal VSMC dynamics in cardiovascular disease 2021: Demonstrated senescence-induced resistance to VSMC re-differentiation Awards British Heart Foundation Senior Basic Science Research Fellow Collaborations Her research involves collaborations with: Prof. Martin R. Bennett (Vascular Biology) Dr. Mikhail Spivakov (Epigenetics)

Roni Levin KonigsbergView profile

Research Professor

• Phagocytosis
• Cell Physiology
• Immunology
• +5 more

Roni Levin Konigsberg is a Research Leader at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (MRC LMB) in Cambridge, UK, leading a group that investigates how phagocytes (macrophages and microglia) recognize, clear, and degrade diverse particulate materials—including microorganisms, dead cells, and protein aggregates—to prevent infections, heart disease, autoimmunity, and neurodegeneration. Her research focuses on: Phagolysosome resolution mechanisms Membrane dynamics during phagocytosis Phosphoinositide signaling pathways Lysosomal detoxification processes Organelle contact sites in phagocyte function Molecular basis of cell corpse clearance The laboratory employs CRISPR-based genetic screens combined with advanced microscopy, biochemistry, and physiology to dissect molecular mechanisms. Key discoveries include SLC12A9's role in lysosomal ammonium-chloride transport and BORC-dependent phagolysosome vesiculation, revealing fundamental principles of cellular homeostasis. Analysis of her publication record shows consistent innovation in phagosome biology, with increasing integration of high-throughput genomics and live-cell imaging since 2016. The work bridges cell biology, immunology, and molecular physiology to address how phagocytes maintain function while processing massive volumes of diverse materials. As part of the MRC LMB's collaborative research ecosystem, the Levin Konigsberg group leverages cutting-edge infrastructure to investigate phagocyte dysfunction in human diseases, with implications for therapeutic development in neurodegeneration and immune disorders.

Efrat LevyView profile

Professor

• Alzheimer's Disease
• Down Syndrome
• Extracellular Vesicles
• +10 more

Efrat Levy, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She leads the Levy Lab at the Center for Dementia Research, focusing on extracellular vesicle biology in neurodegenerative diseases. Education: MSc in Endocrinology and PhD in Cell Biology from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Postdoctoral Training at NYU Medical Center. Her research investigates vesicular trafficking in aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD), emphasizing exosomes and mitovesicles as dual-role vehicles for protein clearance or pathology propagation. Key findings include APOE4 's detrimental effects on vesicle production, cystatin C 's neuroprotective mechanisms, and vesicle-mediated spread of amyloid-beta and tau pathology. Recent publications highlight vesicle dynamics in Down syndrome , ischemic injury , and cocaine-induced pathology . Her lab developed methods for isolating brain-derived vesicles and identified mitovesicles as novel biomarkers for mitochondrial dysfunction. Lab Members: Pasquale D'Acunzo (Research Scientist), Yohan Kim (Volunteer Researcher), Galit Bleicher (Postdoctoral Researcher), Monika Pawlik (Research Manager), Griffin Arsis (Research Support Assistant), Logan Jones (Research Support Assistant).

Lori L. IsomView profile

Professor

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Ion Channels
• +6 more

Dr. Lori L. Isom is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Michigan Medical School. She is a renowned neuroscientist and sodium channel biologist who established the Isom Lab in 1995 to study gene variants linked to developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, particularly Dravet syndrome, and their role in Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). Her research integrates genetics, molecular biology, and electrophysiology to investigate voltage-gated sodium channel dysfunction in neurological and cardiovascular systems. Using human induced pluripotent stem cell models and transgenic animals, her work aims to uncover therapeutic targets and SUDEP risk biomarkers. 2023 Basic Science Award, American Epilepsy Society National Academy of Medicine membership (2022) The Isom Lab actively mentors PhD and undergraduate students across programs like Pharmacology, Neuroscience, and Molecular and Integrative Physiology. Her team employs advanced techniques such as confocal imaging, electrophysiology, and molecular biology to bridge brain-heart arrhythmia mechanisms in SUDEP. She is also a dedicated mentor and contributor to Michigan Medicine's research training programs.

Benoit GentilView profile

Associate Professor

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Biomechanics
• +6 more

Benoit Gentil is an Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education within McGill University's Faculty of Education. He directs the McGill Laboratory of Genetics and Epigenetics in Motor Development, focusing on biomechanics, neuroscience, and rare neurological disorders. His research bridges molecular mechanisms with motor function, particularly in neurodegenerative contexts. His educational background includes a Ph.D. in Molecular and Cell Biology from Université Joseph Fourier (Grenoble), an M.Sc. in Human Nutrition from University Diderot (Paris VII), and postdoctoral training at McGill University in Biochemistry (with Walter Mushynski) and Neurology/Neurosurgery (with Jean-Pierre Julien). Gentil's research centers on neurodegenerative mechanisms in disorders like ARSACS (Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay), with emphasis on intermediate filament dynamics , sacsin protein function , genetic mutations , and stress response pathways . His work explores how cytoskeletal defects contribute to motor neuron degeneration, leveraging models from zebrafish to mammalian systems. Recent publications highlight therapeutic approaches targeting protein aggregation and autophagy in ataxia. Analysis of his 15 most recent articles reveals consistent focus on Neurofilament assembly defects in ARSACS HDAC inhibitors as neuroprotective agents Molecular interactions of sacsin's J-domain Metabolic aspects of neurodegeneration His work spans fundamental cell biology to translational applications, with growing emphasis on epigenetic and proteostatic interventions. Gentil actively supervises graduate students in Biomechanics and Neuroscience programs, accepting M.Sc. and Ph.D. candidates for the 2024-25 academic year. His laboratory investigates genetic and epigenetic regulation of motor development, with particular attention to rare neurological diseases and cytoskeletal pathology. Current projects integrate molecular biology, live-cell imaging, and disease modeling to identify therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative conditions.