Lusine Demirkhanyan, PhD
Research Assistant Professor
Department of Internal Medicine
Contact
- Address:
- 1 Illini Drive, Peoria, IL 61605
- Office Phone:
- 309-680-8604
Email:
Related Sites:
About
Research Overview
Bridging Molecular Neuroscience, AI, and Translational Medicine
The Demirkhanyan Lab operates at the intersection of neurobiology, data science, and oncology. Our unified mission is to decode the biological mechanisms of complex disorders to drive earlier diagnosis and more effective, equitable treatments.
Primary Research Areas
- Neurodevelopment & Plasticity in Autism (ASD)
Despite the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder, its underlying biological mechanisms remain elusive. Our lab seeks to bridge this gap by identifying ASD-related genes and uncovering circuit-level dysfunctions.- Serotonergic Psychoplastogens: We investigate the therapeutic potential of agents like MDMA, psilocybin, and DMT to induce structural plasticity and reopen developmental windows for social learning.
- Patient-Specific Modeling: Using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), we study neuronal circuits derived directly from patients to examine how these agents influence serotonin signaling and cellular connectivity via advanced electrophysiology and imaging.
- AI-Driven Diagnostics & Digital Phenotyping
Early intervention is the cornerstone of improved developmental outcomes. We are developing a multifaceted, AI-based diagnostic platform designed to reduce diagnostic delays in underserved communities.- Integrated Data: The platform synthesizes behavioral features, molecular markers, and digital phenotyping.
- Scalability: Our goal is to create a tool that increases diagnostic accuracy and accessibility on a global scale.
- Ion Channels & Sensory Physiology
Building on extensive foundational work with TRP channels (TRPV1, TRPV3, TRPM8, TRPM3), our team explores the roles of cellular membranes, lipid metabolism, and ion channel function in:- Thermosensation and pain physiology.
- Neuronal excitability and synaptic plasticity in neurodevelopmental disorders.
- Migraine & Precision Medicine
Migraine remains one of the most frequently misdiagnosed neurological conditions. Our lab is tackling this through two parallel tracks:- Clinical Tools: Developing digital support systems for real-time identification in primary care settings.
- Biomarker Discovery: Utilizing molecular and proteomic analysis of saliva to enable personalized, early-stage management.
- Next-Generation Oncology
In the field of pancreatic cancer, we are leveraging circular microRNAs to target pro-angiogenic pathways.- Therapeutics: Engineering exonuclease-resistant RNAs with multi-target activity.
- Early Detection: Applying machine-learning algorithms to longitudinal patient data and using spatial genomics to map metastatic gene signatures within the tumor microenvironment.
Health Equity & Digital Literacy
Scientific innovation is only effective if it is accessible. Dr. Demirkhanyan is deeply committed to reducing digital health literacy disparities. Our team is building an AI-enabled dual-index framework that aligns patient needs with healthcare system capabilities, ensuring that underserved populations benefit from the latest advancements in digital health technology.