Activation mechanisms of Cys-loop ion channel receptors

Abstract:: Understanding how proteins work is fundamental to understanding biological processes. Although Cys-loop ligand-gated ion channels have been important models of protein function for 60 years, their structures have only recently become known. We aim to use the glycine-gated Cl channel as a model for studying universal protein structural and functional properties such as agonist activation, partial agonism and desensitisation. Our assay involves simultaneously measuring ionic flux through the receptor while optically monitoring surface conformation changes in real time. It will lead to novel insights into the structure and function of Cys-loop ion channels and of proteins in general.
Grant type:: ARC Discovery Projects
Funded by:: Australian Research Council

The University of Queensland