Comparative studies of pacemaker channels

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My research program is focused on proteins known as "pacemaker" ion channels found on the surface on cells. These proteins allow potassium and sodium ions to flow in and out of cells which helps to produce electrical activity that is responsible for repetitive beating in the heart and repetitive firing nerve cells of the brain. I am interested in how these proteins work to let ions pass, in which tissues they are found and how their function and location in different organisms has evolved. These questions are important for understanding the fundamental mechanisms of ion passage into cells and the way in which spontaneous electrical impulses are generated. My studies are also important to identify key points in the evolution when important changes in pacemaker channel structure occurred, because these seem to correspond with the large changes in body plan that lead to the arrival of vertebrates. Finally, the research is critical for training and motivating young scientists, who in turn provide many of the new ideas and much enthusiasm, which can be then carried on to their future endeavors.