What are we studying?

Our lab studies structure and function of ion channels: transmembrane protein pores which allow passage of some type of inorganic ion across a biological membrane. Our studies are focused on two target proteins, the CFTR chloride channel and the TRPM2 cation channel. Our experimental approaches include real-time recording of ionic currents of single ion channel proteins and of large channel populations using the patch-clamp technique, kinetic analysis of current time courses, site-directed mutagenesis, protein biochemistry and structural methods, as well as mathematical modeling.

How do we research?

  • Molecular mechanism of CFTR channel gating by ATP binding and hydrolysis
  • Molecular mechanism of CFTR channel activation by cAMP-dependent protein kinase
  • Molecular pathology of CFTR mutations associated with cystic fibrosis
  • Pharmacological profiling of mutant CFTR channels
  • Molecular evolution of the TRPM2 channel
  • Molecular mechanism of TRPM2 channel gating by ADP ribose, Ca2+ and phosphatydil-inositol-bisphosphate

Current research projects

  • Molecular mechanisms of CFTR activation by protein kinase A
  • Structure-function, molecular evolution, and pharmacological modulation of the CFTR and TRPM2 ion channel-enzymes

Staff members and publications

PhD students

  • András Márton Simon

TDK students

  • Zita Kaknics
  • Anna Kőházy-Koós
  • Dániel Kovács (BME)
  • Fruzsina Szilágyi