Topic: From SWELL to PAC—Discovery of Novel Chloride Channels
Speaker: Associate Professor QIU Zhaozhu, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University (JHU)
Date and time: 13:30–15:00, October 20
Venue: Auditorium, L Building
Host: CANG Yong
Abstract:
Chloride is the most abundant free anion in cells. Chloride channels perform a wide range of functions including volume regulation, fluid secretion, regulation of excitability, and acidification of intracellular organelles. However, many electrophysiologically well-characterized chloride channels still lack molecular identity. My lab applies innovative and multidisciplinary approaches to this underexplored area in biology. Our recent discoveries of cell swelling- and proton-activated chloride channels (SWELL1 and PAC) transformed the field and created unprecedented opportunities for elucidating their molecular mechanism and physiological function. The overall goal of our unique research program is to arrive at a comprehensive understanding of the role of under-explored but important chloride channels in cellular physiology, combining biophysical and genetic approaches to link structure to function and to enable new pharmacology targeting them in diseases.
Biography:
2020–present
Associate Professor, Johns Hopkins University
2016–2020
Assistant Professor, Johns Hopkins University
2010–2016
Postdoc Fellow, Scripps/GNF
2006–2010
Ph.D., Columbia University
1997–2002
B.Med, Shandong University