Arkady Khoutorsky
Associate Professor
Research Interests
We are interested in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying sensitization of peripheral and central nociceptive circuits in chronic pain conditions. Our research focuses on the role of gene expression mechanisms, particularly mRNA translation, and structural changes via mTORC2 and extracellular matrix, in mediating the hyperalgesic states.
We are also interested in studying the role of the gut microbiome in fibromyalgia. We work in collaboration with Drs Yoram Shir and Amir Minerbi to deepen our understanding of changes in the gut microbiome in chronic pain in humans, investigate the role of these changes in mediating pain and related co-morbidities, and develop strategies targeting microbiome to alleviate pain.
We are also interested in understanding the role of polymorphisms in the APOE gene in chronic pain.
Areas of expertise:Â
- Dysregulation of translational control and the development of chronic pain
- Extracellular matrix (ECM) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the regulation of spinal cord plasticity
- Dysregulation of integrated stress response (ISR) pathway and pathophysiology of Fragile X syndrome