Alexej Verkhratsky

Professor Alexej Verkhratsky is a leading scholar at the University of Manchester, holding the Professor of Neurophysiology position in the Division of Neuroscience. With over 400 peer-reviewed publications and an H-index of 86, he is a globally recognized expert in glial physiology and neurodegenerative diseases.

• Member of Academia Europaea (Vice-President, Life Sciences)
• Elected to German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina (2013)
• Highly Cited Researcher (2023)

His research focuses on neuroglial communication, pioneering discoveries in calcium and sodium signaling in astrocytes and microglia. Key contributions include:

• Foundational work on glial excitability via Ca²⁺/Na⁺ dynamics
• Development of the astroglial cradle concept for synaptic regulation
• Identification of astroglial atrophy as an early marker in Alzheimer's disease
• Characterization of glial paralysis in neurodegeneration
• Caffeine-induced Ca²⁺ release mechanisms
• Role of P2X receptors in gliotransmission

Recent publications (2025-2026) highlight his work on:

• Mitochondrial responses in Alzheimer's and tauopathies
• Glial regulation of cerebrospinal fluid dynamics
• Neurodegenerative mechanisms in white matter pathology

Scientific Awards include:

• Copernicus Gold Medal (2017)
• Dana Alliance for Brain Initiatives (2012)
• Multiple academy memberships (Slovenian Academy of Sciences, Real Academia Nacional de Farmacia, Poland National Academy of Sciences)

As Editor-in-Chief of Cell Calcium and Deputy Editor of Cell Death and Disease, he shapes discourse in glial physiology and neurodegeneration research. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals for brain health research.