From GRIN Gene Variants to Personalized Therapies

Prof. Hongjie Yuan (Emory University - USA) was our guest

2026.02.19.
From GRIN Gene Variants to Personalized Therapies
On 18 February 2026, the Department of Physiology and Neurobiology welcomed Professor Hongjie Yuan from the Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology at Emory University School of Medicine (USA). Professor Yuan and his research group investigate glutamate receptor variants associated with neurological disorders. His lecture, titled “NMDAR GRIN gene variants in neurological disorders: Mechanistic insights and pharmacological rescue”, presented his team’s latest research findings.

He demonstrated how mutations in the GRIN genes encoding NMDA type glutamate receptors may contribute to the development of various neurological conditions, including epilepsy and autism spectrum disorders. He emphasized the importance of functional studies in understanding the mechanisms by which genetic variants exert their effects—an essential step toward developing personalized therapeutic strategies. The presentation offered insight into how basic research discoveries can be translated into clinical applications, opening new therapeutic avenues for the treatment of rare, genetically based neurological diseases.

The engaging and high-quality lecture attracted many of our department’s faculty members and students. Following the presentation, participants had the opportunity to engage in scientific discussion and exchange experiences. Professor Yuan’s visit strengthened our international scientific connections and inspired potential new collaborations. The event provided an excellent example of how molecular neuroscience and clinical pharmacology can be integrated to improve patient care.