Sana Saffarzadeh, MD

Scientist

Institute of physiology 2. LF UK

Scientific background

With a robust background in neuroscience research and a commitment to pediatric surgery, I have developed a focused interest in the intersection of neurobiology and pediatric care, particularly in pediatric neurosurgery. Currently, as a Neuroscience Researcher at Charles University’s 2nd Faculty of Medicine, I am working under the guidance of MUDr. Helena Pivoňková, Ph.D., exploring how neuronal activity affects oligodendrocyte lineage cells, specifically in the context of epilepsy. Our research uses a mouse model of focal cortical dysplasia to investigate the mechanisms of hypomyelination often observed in epilepsy. Through methods like immunohistochemistry, patch clamp electrophysiology, single-cell transcriptomics, and advanced imaging techniques, I study how pathological neuronal activity impacts myelination and how disruptions in these processes could underlie some of epilepsy’s cognitive and developmental effects. My clinical experience, including my current pediatric surgery internship at Motol Hospital, provides hands-on exposure to pediatric neurological and developmental conditions, strengthening my interest in pediatric neurosurgery. This experience, combined with a solid foundation in experimental neuroscience, aligns well with my goal to investigate neurological conditions both in the lab and in future clinical and surgical settings

Research interests

My research interests center on the mechanisms of neuron-glial interactions and the developmental impact of neurobiological disorders in children. I am particularly captivated by the role of oligodendrocytes and myelination in epilepsy, as changes in myelination can have profound effects on neuronal circuitry and overall brain function. In our current work, we aim to understand how epileptic neuronal activity influences oligodendrocyte behavior and why hypomyelination is a common finding in epilepsy, even though neuronal activity typically promotes myelination. This area of research is crucial to understanding how neurological diseases disrupt brain development and function, especially in pediatric populations. Looking forward, I am deeply motivated to translate these research insights into pediatric neurosurgery, where I can further explore neurological pathologies and contribute to developing clinical interventions that improve long-term outcomes for children. By merging my neuroscience background with surgical training, I aspire to make a meaningful impact on the treatment of neurological disorders in pediatric patients, from foundational research to clinical innovation.

Selected publications

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