Li-Yen Mae Huang

Li-Yen Mae Huang, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Neurobiology at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). Her laboratory investigates molecular mechanisms of chronic pain, focusing on neuroplasticity in dorsal root ganglion neurons, purinergic signaling, and neuron-glial interactions after injury. She utilizes rodent and large animal (sheep) models to bridge preclinical findings with clinical applications in pain management.

Education:

• PhD in Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo
• Post-Doctoral Training: Laboratory of Biophysics and Neurophysiology, NINDS, NIH
• Visiting Scientist: Max-Planck-Institut für Biophysical Chemistry, Germany

Research Focus: Dr. Huang's work explores ATP-mediated neuron-satellite glial communication, P2X receptor sensitization in neuropathic pain, inflammatory hyperalgesia, and opioid analgesia mechanisms. Her lab also validates rodent-derived pain insights in translational sheep models to enhance clinical relevance.

Publication Trends: Recent articles (2020-2025) reflect interdisciplinary collaboration, spanning neurobiology, diabetes complications, cancer mechanisms, and nanomaterials. Key themes include neuro-immune interactions, diabetic encephalopathy, and innovative photocatalytic materials for energy applications.