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SFB: Biomembranes: Molecular Aspects of Ion Channels

Abstract: Molecular aspects of ion channels
Ion channels as cellular targets and origin of atherogenic processes are studied by a multidisciplinar approach utilizing the logistic framework of the SFB "Biomembranes".
Particular emphases is given to the modulation of ion channel functins by protein-lipid interactions and by redox modification of channel proteins.

The project which takes place at both the Departmentsof Medical Physics and Biophysics and of Pharmacology and Toxicology of the University in Graz is aimed at clarifying the following general questions:

Are ion channels involved in atherogenesis?
Which channels are those?
How are cahnnels modulated by lipid peroxides?
How are channels modulated by the cellular redox state?
What are the structural motifs on proteins, responsible for interaction with lipids and for redox sensitivity?
Our activities focus on the following topics:

Identification of endothelial ion channels which are modulated by reactive oxygen species and disturbances of the cellular redox state.
Screening of mRNA from endothelial cells for potential redox sensitive channels, i.e. Kir channels and nonselective cation channels.
Characterization of the modulation by reactive oxygen species of G-protein activated inward rectifying K+ channels (GIRK channels) of artial muscle expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes.
Characterization of the modulation by reactive oxygen species of smooth muscle Ca2+ channels expressed in HEK 293 cells.
Key words: Ion channels, K+ channels, Ca2+ channels, atherosclerosis, redox sensitivity, cardiovascular system, endothelial cells

Project Leader:: Schreibmayer Wolfgang

Duration:: 01.10.1995-30.09.2005

Programme:: Spezialforschungsbereiche (SFB)

Type of Research: basic research

Staff: Schreibmayer, Wolfgang, Project Leader

MUG Research Units: Division of Medical Physics and Biophysics

Funded by: FWF, Fonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung, Wien, Austria

Project results published: > Identification of the structural determinant respo... FEBS J. 2009; 276(21): 6218-6226.; > Regulation of Ion Channels by G-Proteins and Prote... IXth National Conference of Biophysics; May; 11st - 14th; 2007; Bucarest; Rumenia. 2007.