Han-Xiang Deng

Han-Xiang Deng, MD, PhD, is a Research Professor in the Department of Neurology at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, specializing in Neuromuscular Disease. His research focuses on uncovering pathogenic mechanisms in neurodegenerative disorders, with emphasis on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson's disease. He employs genetic, molecular, and genome-editing approaches to develop therapeutic strategies.

Education

• MD: Central South University XiangYa Medical School, China (1983)
• Postdoctoral Fellow: Molecular Biology, Northwestern University

Research Focus

Dr. Deng investigates neurodegenerative disease mechanisms through:

• Genetic and epigenetic drivers of ALS and Parkinson's
• CRISPR/Cas9-based gene therapy validation
• Mitochondrial dysfunction pathways
• Transgenic mouse model development
• Neuroinflammation regulation

His work bridges basic science with translational applications.

Recent Research Trends

Analysis of his 121 publications reveals consistent focus on: (1) molecular underpinnings of Parkinson's (e.g., CHCHD2-linked mitochondrial defects), (2) CRISPR therapeutics for SOD1-mutant ALS models, (3) inflammasome modulation, and (4) genetic basis of motor neuron diseases. Recent studies prioritize metabolic dysregulation and long-term efficacy of gene-editing interventions.

Affiliations

• Les Turner ALS Center
• Simpson Querrey Center for Neurogenetics