Dr. Lopez-Santiago has been doing patch clamp electrophysiology for over 25 years, specializing in recording isolated ion currents and action potentials across various cell types to elucidate cellular excitability regulation mechanisms. His formal training in electrophysiology commenced during his Ph.D. studies, where he worked with cell lines and primary cultures under the guidance of Dr. Gabriel Cota. Subsequently, as a postdoctoral researcher in Dr. Lori Isom's laboratory at the University of Michigan, his expertise expanded through collaborations with numerous scientists. Over the years, Dr. Lopez-Santiago has worked extensively with various cell lines, acute dissociated neurons, cardiomyocytes, and iPSC-derived neurons, conducting a wide range of electrophysiological recordings. His expertise in electrophysiology has enabled successful collaborations with sodium channel biologicals and epilepsy experts such as Dr. Lori Isom, Dr. Jack Parent, and Dr. Miriam Meisler at the University of Michigan.

Dr. Lopez-Santiago and his collaborators have utilized cell lines to express genetic mutations in the SCN1B gene, investigating the mechanisms through which these mutations modify sodium currents. Additionally, they have used mouse models to explore mutations in SCN1B, SCN1A, and SCN8A, which are associated with Dravet syndrome and other severe epileptic encephalopathies. Furthermore, they have utilized human iPSC-derived neurons from epileptic patients to study how these genetic mutations alter sodium current and excitability in distinct genetic backgrounds and various neuron types. Their research also includes pharmacological studies aimed at developing more personalized treatments for individual patients.

Genetic epilepsy; the influence of mutations in sodium channel genes on neuronal and cardiac physiology.