Berge A. Minassian

Berge A. Minassian, M.D., is a Professor in the Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology, and Neuroscience at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He serves as Division Chief of Child Neurology and directs the Pediatric Neurology Gene Therapy Program at the Children's Medical Center Research Institute.

Education:

• American University of Beirut (Undergraduate)
• McGill University (Medical School)
• UCLA (Adult Neurology Residency)
• Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto (Pediatric Epileptology and Neurogenetics)

Dr. Minassian's research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of neurogenetic diseases, particularly Lafora disease and other progressive myoclonus epilepsies. His lab investigates glycogen metabolism in neuronal function and develops gene therapy strategies for pediatric neurological disorders.

Publications & Research Trends: His work spans genetic discovery (over 20 disease genes), gene therapy development, and translational studies in epilepsy. Key subfields include neurogenetics, glycogen pathophysiology, and precision medicine approaches.

Scientific Awards:

• Jacob's Ladder 2014 Norman Saunders International Research Prize
• American Academy of Neurology 2007 Dreifuss-Penry Epilepsy Award
• Canadian Paediatric Society 2008 Sanofi Pasteur Research Award
• American Epilepsy Society 1996 Young Investigator Award
• Fellow (Neurology) of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

Dr. Minassian leads efforts to integrate clinical pediatric neurology with gene therapy research at UT Southwestern, collaborating with Dr. Steven Gray to advance clinical trials for rare genetic neurological disorders.