Miao Zhang

Dr. Miao Zhang is an Associate Professor in the School of Pharmacy at Chapman University, specializing in ion channels, structural biology, electrophysiology, drug discovery, and movement disorders. His research focuses on understanding the structure and function of small-conductance Ca²⁺-activated K⁺ (SK) channels and developing structure-aided drug discovery approaches for neurological and cardiovascular diseases.

• Hebei Medical University, Bachelor of Science
• Hebei Medical University, Master of Science
• Kyoto University, Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences (2007)

Dr. Zhang's research program utilizes structural biology techniques to investigate ion channels as potential drug targets. His laboratory focuses on two primary research areas: (1) structure-aided drug discovery targeting SK2 channels for movement disorders including ataxia and essential tremor; and (2) structure-aided drug discovery targeting SK3 channels for vascular diseases. His work bridges molecular structure, channel function, and therapeutic applications, with particular emphasis on understanding how mutations and pharmacological modulators affect channel behavior.

Analysis of Dr. Zhang's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on the structural determinants of potassium channel function, particularly the role of specific domains like the HA/HB helices and S4-S5 linker in channel gating and modulation. His research demonstrates how subtle structural changes can dramatically alter channel properties and how these insights can be leveraged for developing subtype-selective therapeutics. The publications span multiple disciplines including molecular pharmacology, structural biology, and disease modeling.

Dr. Zhang is an active member of several professional organizations including the Biophysical Society, Society for Neuroscience, and American Heart Association, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of his research.

With over 20 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals such as Nature Chemical Biology, Science Advances, PNAS, and Nature Communications, Dr. Zhang has established himself as a significant contributor to the field of ion channel research and drug discovery. His work has been cited extensively, demonstrating its impact on understanding channel structure-function relationships and therapeutic targeting.