Bikash Pattnaik
Credentials: Pediatrics Department
Position title: Integrating molecular genetics, electrophysiology, gene therapy, and stem cell biology.
Email: pattnaik@wisc.edu
Address:
Service Memorial Institute 112
1300 University Ave
Madison, WI 53706
LAB WEBSITE:
FOCUS GROUPS:
Cellular & Molecular Metabolism; Developmental Biology & Regenerative Medicine; Membrane Biology & Protein Trafficking
RESEARCH DESCRIPTION:
Our research focus s on ion channel physiology, genetic diseases, and translational therapeutics. We have investigated
the KCNJ13 gene in the retina extensively. The KCNJ13 gene encodes an inwardly rectifying potassium channel
(Kir7.1) whose function has been well established in the retina, critical for maintaining ionic homeostasis of the retinal
pigment epithelium (RPE). Mutations in the gene causes autosomal recessive Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA16)
and autosomal dominant snowflake vitreoretinal degeneration. We are working on several proof-of-principle genomic
medicine approaches such as gene therapy, genome editing, and engineered tRNA to overcome nonsense mutation.
We have used patient induced pluripotent stem cell derived disease models to explore transcription and translation
targeting drug screening.
ALSO A TRAINER IN THE FOLLOWING PROGRAMS:
Endocrine and Reproductive Physiology, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Ophthalmology