My group studies the ion channel superfamily of Epithelial sodium channel (ENaC)/Degenerin (DEG) channels. Currently, we focus our efforts on understanding ENaC function. ENaC plays a key role in Na+ reabsorption in epithelial cells. In the kidneys, it regulates blood volume and blood pressure. In the lungs, it regulates airway surface liquid layer. To understand its role in physiological and pathophysiological conditions, we use a combination of biochemical and biophysical techniques to define the molecular basis of oligomeric assembly. We find that ENaC arranges in a preferred counterclockwise configuration to form a stable trimeric assembly. Our findings highlight the importance of diverse subunit compositions in fine-tuning ion channel properties.
Membrane Transport (University of St Andrews, UK) (2023) Proc Physiol Soc 51, SA04
Research Symposium: Structural insights into the trimeric assembly of epithelial sodium channels
Isabelle Baconguis1, Alexandra Houser1,
1Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University Portland, OR United States, 2Oregon Health & Science University Portland, OR United States, 3Neuroscience Graduate Program, Oregon Health & Science University Portland, OR United States,
View other abstracts by:
Where applicable, experiments conform with Society ethical requirements.