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Brian Jarecki
Mr.
Pharmacology and Toxicology
bjarecki@iupui.edu
Biophysical properties of voltage-gated sodium channels
I currently work on studying the biophysical properties of voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs). VGSCs are proteins that open and close (gate) in response to changes in transmembrane potential due to changes in the local electric field dictated by the electrochemical gradient. The gating of VGSCs play a critical role in shaping the upstroke of action potentials. As such, these proteins are crucial players in perception of sensory information. Dysfunction of these proteins has been implicated in many painful disorders in addition to CNS and cardiac disturbances. Therefore, a better understanding of the structure/function and physiology of these proteins may help develop more useful therapeutic agents. Much of the research generated from our lab uses molecular, electrophysiological, biochemical, and computer-based modeling techniques to answer specific questions regarding VGSCs. In doing this, we use a variety of disciplines such as biochemistry, physiology (neurophysiology), chemistry, pharmacology and toxicology to develop our hypotheses. We hope to gain valuable insight into the mechanisms of these proteins so that more useful therapeutic agents can be developed to specifically target these proteins.
