Atsushi Asakura

Atsushi Asakura is an Associate Professor at the University of Minnesota, affiliated with the Department of Neurology and Genetics. His research focuses on skeletal muscle biology, muscular dystrophy, and stem cell therapies, with a particular emphasis on Notch signaling, vascular-targeted interventions, and regenerative medicine. Dr. Asakura's work bridges genetic mechanisms and clinical applications for muscle diseases.

Dr. Asakura's research explores muscle stem cell dynamics, angiogenesis, and gene regulation in muscle regeneration. His studies include utrophin upregulation, VEGF-FLT1 axis, and 3D imaging of muscle niches. Current projects funded by the NIH, Department of Defense, and SOM Biotech target Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy through vascular and stem cell approaches.

Recent publications highlight advancements in muscle stem cell delivery, Notch2 mutations, and iPSC applications for muscle disorders. Dr. Asakura's work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals through biomedical innovation and degenerative disease research.