Understanding the mechanisms of ion conduction and drug action in voltage gated sodium channels. Voltage-gated sodium channels initiate electrical impulses in nerve and muscle and are the target of many local anaesthetic, anti-epileptic and anti-arrythmic drugs. The publication of atomic resolution structures of homologous proteins from bacteria in the last 18 months has now made it possible to gain a detailed understanding of how these channels work, and how they are influenced by drugs. This p ....Understanding the mechanisms of ion conduction and drug action in voltage gated sodium channels. Voltage-gated sodium channels initiate electrical impulses in nerve and muscle and are the target of many local anaesthetic, anti-epileptic and anti-arrythmic drugs. The publication of atomic resolution structures of homologous proteins from bacteria in the last 18 months has now made it possible to gain a detailed understanding of how these channels work, and how they are influenced by drugs. This project aims to determine the basis of ion permeation and selectivity in the channels and explain the mechanisms of action for a number of common drugs. This will provide a foundation for future drug development to target specific channels for improved treatment of epilepsy, chronic pain and arrythmias. Read moreRead less
Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE130100210
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$350,000.00
Summary
In-vivo, high-resolution, whole animal imaging . The purchase of state-of-the-art live-animal imaging equipment for use by researchers at The Australian National University and The University of New South Wales. This equipment will aid the study of many aspects of normal biology and disease including cancer, inflammation, autoimmune diseases and blood vessel disorders.
Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE120100043
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$330,000.00
Summary
Development of an ultra-high speed spinning disk confocal micro-particle image velocimetry (PIV) platform for the investigation of cardiovascular disease . This facility will establish a microscope system specifically designed to investigate the function of blood cells in the context of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke.