(Patho-)Physiology of cation channels

PD Dr. rer. nat. Andreas Beck

Ion channels are membrane proteins that are essential for cellular signaling. They are involved in a variety of physiological processes, and dysfunctions are implicated in a wide range of diseases. This makes ion channels interesting and important drug targets.

We are interested in Ca2+-permeable cation channels, their functional mechanisms, pharmacology, interaction partners (microdomains) and cellular functions, especially in hormone-secreting cells, immune cells, and endo- and epithelial cells.

Our focus lies on the transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels, which are regulated by diverse physical and chemical stimuli. They act as signal transducers by depolarizing the plasma membrane and increasing cytosolic Ca2+, which is the far most important intracellular second messenger.

Current projects include the investigation of TRP channels in insulin-secreting pancreatic b-cells and their function in regulating blood glucose - keyword diabetes -, and neutrophils as well as lung endothelial cells and their function in the immune response.