Investigating how ion channels function in the body
Official title: Structure-function studies on Ion channels
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11051888 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how certain channels in our cells help send electrical signals, which is important for things like heartbeats and brain activity, to better understand conditions like arrhythmias and epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $429,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM153212-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051888 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with cardiac arrhythmias or epilepsy, particularly those with genetic mutations affecting ion channels.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to ion channel dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels, which are crucial for transmitting electrical signals in neurons, muscles, and endocrine cells. The team employs advanced techniques, including unnatural amino acid mutagenesis, to modify proteins and study their behavior in detail. By examining how these channels activate and inactivate, the research aims to uncover fundamental insights into their role in various physiological processes. This could lead to a better understanding of conditions like arrhythmias and epilepsy, which are linked to ion channel dysfunction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for heart arrhythmias and epilepsy by improving our understanding of ion channel function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding ion channels, indicating that this approach has the potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Valiyaveetil, Francis — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Valiyaveetil, Francis
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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.