How calcium affects sodium channels in the body
Official title: Calcium modification of voltage gated sodium channels
Funded at Mississippi State University · NIH-11097153 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how calcium affects the way sodium channels work in our cells, which is important for sending signals in the heart and brain, and it aims to help us understand how problems with these channels can lead to health issues, so we can find better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mississippi State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mississippi State, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2021 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $363,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM142868-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11097153 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with genetic mutations affecting sodium channels or those suffering from related cardiac or neurological disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to sodium channel dysfunction or those without genetic mutations affecting these channels may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of calcium in modifying the function of voltage-gated sodium channels, which are crucial for generating electrical signals in various cells, including those in the heart and brain. The study focuses on understanding how calcium interacts with sodium channels and the proteins that assist them, particularly looking at how these interactions can lead to diseases when they malfunction. By exploring these mechanisms, the research aims to clarify the complex relationships between calcium levels and sodium channel activity, which could have significant implications for treating related health conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for diseases caused by dysfunctional sodium channels, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the interactions between calcium and sodium channels, indicating that this area of study has potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Christopher N. — Mississippi State University
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Christopher N.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.