معرفی
Gabriele Lignani is a Professor of Translational Neuroscience at University College London's Queen Square Institute of Neurology, where he leads research in the Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy. He also serves as Theme Lead for Disease Modifications and Therapeutics at the Epilepsy Research Institute UK and is Founder, Scientific Adviser, and Consultant for EpilesyGTx company.
Lignani completed his academic training with a BSc in Medical Biotechnologies from the University of Milan (2006), followed by an MSc in Medical-pharmaceutical Biotechnologies (Neuroscience) from the University of Genova (2008), and a PhD in Experimental Neuroscience from the University of Genova in collaboration with the Italian Institute of Technology (2012).
His research focuses on developing novel gene therapy approaches for intractable neurological diseases with rapid translational potential. Utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as CRISPR and synthetic promoters, his lab investigates pathophysiological mechanisms of diseases including Focal Epilepsy, Dravet Syndrome, Ataxia, Dementia and Schizophrenia. His work spans from molecular biology to in vitro and in vivo electrophysiology, using both cell lines and animal models, as well as iPSC-derived neurons from patients.
Lignani's publication record demonstrates a strong focus on translational neuroscience, particularly in gene therapy approaches for neurological disorders. His recent work centers on RNA editing for Dravet Syndrome, CRISPR-based treatments for neurodegenerative conditions, and innovative neurotechnology solutions. The research shows consistent progression from basic mechanistic studies to therapeutic applications.
- ILAE European Young Investigator Award (2024)
- Elected Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology (2024)
- Michael Prize for the best scientific contribution to progress in the field of Epilepsy (2023)
- Young Investigator Harinarayan Award, International League against Epilepsy (ILAE) (2021)
- MRC New Investigator (2019-2023)
- Epilepsy Research UK Emerging Leader fellowship (2018-2021)
- Horizon 2020- Marie Curie Individual fellowship (2016-2018)
Lignani actively contributes to academic training as Course Co-Director for the Dual MSc in Brain and Mind (UCL and Paris), Module Leader for "Genetic Therapies for CNS Diseases" and "Basic Neuroscience" at UCL, and lecturer at PhD Summer Schools at the Italian Institute of Technology. His research is supported by multiple prestigious grants including MRC New Investigator funding and Epilepsy Research UK fellowships.
The Lignani Lab, located within the Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy at UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, brings together a multidisciplinary team working at the intersection of molecular neuroscience, gene therapy, and electrophysiology to develop innovative treatments for devastating neurological conditions.
