Investigating how peptide toxins interact with sodium channels in human cells
Biophysical analysis of interactions between peptide toxins and human sodium channel voltage-sensor domains
This study is looking at how certain toxins affect sodium channels in the body, which are important for things like heartbeats and nerve signals, to help us understand conditions like heart rhythm problems and epilepsy, and to find new ways to manage pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | College of Staten Island NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10799056 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific peptide toxins interact with sodium channels, which are crucial for various bodily functions including heart regulation and nerve signaling. By isolating voltage-sensor domains from human sodium channels, the study aims to analyze how these toxins bind and modify channel activity. This could lead to insights into diseases caused by sodium channel mutations, such as cardiac arrhythmias and epilepsy, and may also contribute to pain management strategies. The approach combines biophysical analysis with toxin isolation to explore potential therapeutic applications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from conditions like cardiac arrhythmias, epilepsy, or chronic pain related to sodium channel dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to sodium channel function or those not experiencing pain or arrhythmias may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for conditions related to sodium channel dysfunction, including pain management and cardiac arrhythmias.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is innovative, previous studies have shown promise in using peptide toxins to target sodium channels for therapeutic purposes.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- College of Staten Island — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Poget, Sebastien F — College of Staten Island
- Study coordinator: Poget, Sebastien F
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 below.