Mechanotransduction is defined as the ability of living cells to respond to and convert mechanical stimuli into electro-chemical cellular signals to ensure survival. It is largely dependent on membrane proteins known as mechanosensitive (MS) ion channels. These channels are involved in senses of hearing and touch, and are also crucial regulators of heart and muscle function. This research aims to elucidate the general physical principles underlying mechanotransduction in living cells.
Ion channels are molecular pores of excitable membranes facilitating passage of ions and organic solutes across cellular membranes. An ever-increasing number of human and animal diseases result from malfunctioning ion channels making them to important therapeutic targets, which are modulated by a range of currently prescribed drugs. In the recent years the scientific and medical community has become increasingly aware of the role that mechanosensitive ion channels play in pathology of diseases i ....Ion channels are molecular pores of excitable membranes facilitating passage of ions and organic solutes across cellular membranes. An ever-increasing number of human and animal diseases result from malfunctioning ion channels making them to important therapeutic targets, which are modulated by a range of currently prescribed drugs. In the recent years the scientific and medical community has become increasingly aware of the role that mechanosensitive ion channels play in pathology of diseases including cardiac hyperthrophy and arrhythmias.Read moreRead less
Inhibitory Neurotransmitter Receptors As Therapeutic Targets For Chronic Pain And Anxiety Disorders
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$763,409.00
Summary
There are currently few effective long-term treatments for chronic pain and anxiety disorders. Here we propose to develop innovative therapies for both of these debilitating neurological disorders. In addition, we plan to improve our current understanding of how these disorders occur in the first place. This may identify novel potential therapeutic strategies for treating pain, anxiety and a host of other neurological disorders.