Ion Channels and Cell Signalling Centre

The major area of research is focused on the study of ion channels, membrane transporters, intracellular signalling pathways of calcium and kinasesand in the modulation of ion channels by cellular signalling pathways in diverse cell types.

There are a number of interests within this research group. Electrophysiological, molecular and functional techniques are employed to study the properties of different ion channels in vascular and gastrointestinal smooth muscle to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the contractile properties of these tissues. Calcium signalling in smooth muscle is studied by electrophysiological and confocal imaging techniques. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of intracellular calcium/calmodulin and CaMKII signalling in neuronal cells are investigated by fluorescence confocal imaging and kinetic techniques. Molecular and electrophysiological techniques are used to study the regulation of ion channel and transporter function in lung epithelial tissue by kinases to elucidate the mechanisms underlying lung fluid secretion, absorption and composition. These cellular approaches interdigitate with translational research into lung epithelial dysfunction caused by proteinase allergens and glucose transport mechanisms, joint synoviocyte function and intracellular regulation of lubricant secretion, studied at whole organ and single cell signalling levels,microvascular and lymphatic function in genetic and acquired disorders and the mechanisms underlying the addictive properties of alcohol.

The researchers involved in the ion channels and cell signalling centre undertake innovative and high quality research at all levels from the genomic to the whole organism and consequently provide a broad insight into the mechanisms that underlie physiological functions, pharmacological applications and pathophysiological conditions.