Dr. Vikram Shakkottai is a Professor in the Department of Neurology at UT Southwestern Medical Center, specializing in cerebellar ataxias. He joined UT Southwestern in 2021 and co-leads the Resident Research Track to train future clinician-scientists. His research focuses on identifying how neuronal physiology contributes to motor dysfunction and degeneration in cerebellar ataxia, with particular emphasis on ion channel dysfunction and Purkinje neuron excitability. His work has demonstrated shared therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways across multiple ataxia models. Education: MD from Christian Medical College, Vellore (India); PhD from UC Irvine Residency: Neurology at Washington University/Barnes-Jewish Hospital Fellowship: Movement Disorders at University of Michigan Research interests include cerebellar physiology, ion channelopathies in neurodegeneration, and translational therapies for spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs). His lab employs advanced imaging, genetic analysis, and cellular models to study disease mechanisms. Key findings include identifying olivary hypertrophy and intrinsic membrane hyperexcitability as biomarkers for SCA1 progression. Publications highlight advancements in MRI-based progression metrics, genetic discovery (e.g., SCA27B), and drug repurposing strategies. Collaborations span clinical trials, stem cell models, and multi-center studies to accelerate ataxia research. The Shakkottai Lab actively seeks researchers to join their interdisciplinary efforts. Notable contributions include the SARA (Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia) utility studies and development of organoid models for ataxia research. His work bridges basic science and clinical care, aiming to improve diagnosis and treatment options for cerebellar ataxia patients.
