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Cryo-EM studies of human TRPM2 channel


EMSL Project ID
51189

Abstract

TRPM2, a Ca2+-permeable, nonselective cation channel belonging to the melastatin subfamily of the TRP superfamily, acts as a major “warmth sensor” in the hypothalamus to regulate core body temperature. Its activation is linked to both Ca2+ entry across the plasma membrane and Ca2+ release from lysosomes. TRPM2 thus plays essential roles in numerous Ca2+-related physiological processes including immune response, insulin release and cell death, and its dysregulation in diseases such as bipolar disorder and Alzheimer’s disease. Our lab has published the first structures of zebrafish and human TRPM2 channels in the past year and we aim to further explore the gating mechanism and pharmacology of this important ion channel. Of note, there are very few TRPM2-specific drugs available.

Project Details

Start Date
2020-01-15
End Date
2021-03-17
Status
Closed

Team

Principal Investigator

Juan Du
Institution
Van Andel Research Institute

Team Members

Sunghark Kwon
Institution
Van Andel Research Institute

Yihe Huang
Institution
Van Andel Research Institute

Tyler Walter
Institution
Van Andel Research Institute

Zheng Ruan
Institution
Van Andel Research Institute

Harry Scott
Institution
Oregon Health & Science University

Wei Lu
Institution
Van Andel Research Institute