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Mission Statement

As the neuroscience field enters the post-genomic era, a major goal is the translation of genomic sequence information into a molecular understanding of the mechanisms of neuronal information processing and transfer. Our research focuses on protein function, biochemical pathways and networks of protein-protein interactions regulating mammalian neuronal signalling. In particular, we are interested in the molecular characteristics of signalling complexes containing voltage-sensitive ion channels (in particular potassium channels), proteins which determine the intrinsic electrical properties of neurons and how these cells respond to external stimuli, integrate the encoded information and generate an appropriate response. Out of 30,000 genes identified in the human genome, approximately 10% are believed to be integral membrane proteins (5% GPCRs, 1.7% transporters, 1.3% ion channels).

We will be using selective toxins, sequence-directed antibodies and a panel of protein biochemistry methods including mass spectrometry in order to advance our understanding of how these important signalling molecules generate and maintain the fidelity of neuronal signalling, and how these processes can be dynamically regulated to generate phenotypic plasticity. Such information is necessary for an understanding of not only the normal function of neurons, but also in understanding disease states where excitability is altered, such as epilepsy and peripheral demyelinating disorders (e.g. multiple sclerosis).

Characterization of native ion channels and associated interacting proteins as potential drug targets for these diseases, for neurodegenerative disorders where restoration of function may come from modulation of ion channel function in surviving neurons, and for other disorders of the nervous system remains an important facet of our analyses.