Modulation of membrane architecture and function by physiologically relevant and toxic ions

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Toxic metals are at the core of significant and growing concerns to the Natural Sciences and Engineering fields in Canada and beyond. Indeed, ion mixtures of toxic metals disrupt physiology via mechanisms that remain poorly understood. In accord with my long term research interest in the structure and function of biomembranes, this proposal addresses the impact of ions and toxic metals on membranes. The impact of essential ions Na+, K+ and Ca++ is compared with the common pollutants Cd++ and Hg++. Ion combinations are important since the human body is exposed to a mix of pollutants which may increase their effects. These ions differ in their toxicity as Cd++ was reported as a problem for wildlife whereas Hg++ is more a concern for domestic animals. Ion-membrane interactions are studied in four areas: