Our bodies are “wet computers”, utilizing electrical signals to mediate nerve function, a regular heart rhythm, muscle contraction and other physiological functions. Voltage-gated ion channels are fascinating macromolecules that span the cell membrane and, upon receipt of an electrical signal, allow specific ions to cross into or out of the cell. By controlling ionic conduction, ion channels govern cellular excitability; that is, the ability of a cell to generate, and respond to, electrical signals.
My group combines innovative electrophysiological, optical and computational approaches to investigate how the intricate molecular architecture of ion channels relates to their function and regulation; and how ion channel function or dysfunction governs cellular excitability in health and disease.