Understanding how ion channels open and close in response to signals
Official title: Structural energetics of voltage- and ligand-dependent gating in ion channels
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10986096 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain tiny channels in our brain and heart react to different signals, which could help us understand how they work and why they open and close, making it easier to learn about conditions that affect our heart and brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $363,870 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM148137-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10986096 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions linked to ion channel dysfunction, such as certain neurological or cardiac disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to ion channel function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which ion channels, which are crucial for electrical signaling in the brain and heart, respond to various stimuli like voltage changes and small molecules. By focusing on the cyclic nucleotide-binding domain family of ion channels, the research aims to uncover how different conformations of these channels affect their opening and closing. Using advanced techniques like fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM), the study will measure the energetics of these conformational changes to better understand their role in cell excitability.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for disorders caused by ion channel defects, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding ion channel mechanisms, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zagotta, William N — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Zagotta, William N
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.