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| Project ID/Title: | 07-10. Real-time dynamic clamp analysis of role of icon channels in membrane properties of cardiac cells | | Advisor: | Hong-Sheng Wang | | Academic Title: | Assistant Professor | | Department: | Pharmacology & Cell Biophysics | | Department Website: | www.med.uc.edu/pharmacology/ | | Email: | hong-sheng.wang@uc.edu | | Phone: | 513-558-5379 | | Fax: | 513-558-1169 | | Graduate Program(s): | Pharmacology & Cell Biophysics | | Co-Advisor(s): | | | Project Description: | Ionic currents, generated by membrane proteins known as ion channels, are the basis of electrical activities of excitable tissues, including the heart. The IGERT project focuses on the role of ionic membrane currents in governing the electrical and mechanical properties of cardiac cells. We will focus on two currents, a K+ current known as Ito, and a late component of the Na+ current, INa-L. Due to limitations in available techniques, the physiological functions of these currents are poorly understood. Our lab is the first to apply a novel technique, the real-time dynamic clamp, in the study of the heart. This powerful technique allows the simulation of membrane conductances in real, living cells, thereby bridging in silico mathematical modeling and experimental electrophysiology. Using the dynamic clamp combined with patch clamp and imaging techniques, we will study the role of Ito and INa-L in regulating the electrical properties, calcium dynamics, and contractile properties of ventricular cells. |
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