معرفی
Dr. Gary Yellen is the Dr. George Packer Berry Professor of Neurobiology at Harvard Medical School. His research focuses on neuronal metabolism and ion channel physiology, particularly the interplay between cellular energy metabolism and neuronal excitability. He investigates mechanisms underlying the anticonvulsant effects of the ketogenic diet, KATP channel function, and develops fluorescent biosensors to monitor metabolites in live cells. His lab uses electrophysiology, mass spectrometry imaging (Slice-MSI), and genetically encoded sensors such as Perceval (ATP/ADP ratio), Peredox (NADH/NAD+), and LiLac (lactate) to explore metabolic dynamics in brain tissue. Collaborations involve Prof. Nika Danial (DFCI) on BAD protein-mediated seizure resistance and Prof. Nathalie Agar (BWH) on MALDI-MSI brain slice analysis.
Research interests include metabolic seizure resistance, metabolic compartmentation, and ion channel biophysics. Key projects address how metabolic shifts (e.g., ketone body utilization) modulate KATP channel activity to suppress seizures, and how neuronal glycolysis responds to stimulation. Experimental tools include engineered mouse models, single-channel recording, and advanced imaging techniques like two-photon FLIM microscopy.
Articles highlight advancements in biosensor design, metabolic pathway mapping, and the mechanistic basis of epilepsy therapies. Ongoing work aims to translate metabolic insights into improved treatments for neurological disorders.
