Mechanisms of ion and acid-base regulation in aquatic animals

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The long-term focus of the research program is to identify and characterize ion transport systems involved in the normal functional physiology in animals. Regulation of ion and acid-base status is absolutely essential for proper cell function and metabolism and is also an integral component of adaptability to different environments. Furthermore, disorders of ion and acid-base metabolism are linked to numerous animal pathologies. Understanding the molecular mechanisms and regulation of these ion and acid-base transport system evolution will enable us to understand and predict physiological adaptability to environmental change (changes in pH, salinity, temperature) or various environmental stressors such as toxicants (e.g. waterborne metals, pollutants, organic matter). I use a variety of model systems to investigate these processes and examine the regulation and control of ion and acid-base transporters. My research program uses both freshwater animals (fish, crabs, mosquitoes) and seawater animals (dogfish, hagfish, crabs, sponges) through research conducted in both Alberta and at Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre. The overarching goal of the research program is to understanding both the common and unique methods of ion and acid-base transport and its regulation.