9630832 Rudy Nerve cells fire electrical signals, whose frequency is the "Morse code" by which information is transmitted throughout the nervous system. Key in determining the firing frequency of neurons are membrane proteins known as potassium channels. Potassium channels are also important in the regulation of the rhythmic contraction of the heart. Research funded by this grant investigates the molecular composition of one type of potassium channel known as A- type, which is particularly important in the modulation of the firing tempo of neurons and heart cells. These A-type potassium channels regulate firing frequency by periodically changing between active and inactive states. Previous work has shown that the periodicity of activation of A-type potassium channels depends on small molecules that interact with the channel. The goal of this project is to isolate and characterize these small components of A-type potassium channels and identify the genes that encode them. Results from research is expected to significantly increase the understanding of the molecular regulation of nervous system function.
