Functions of TRP ion channels

TRP ion channels are a group of specialized membrane proteins and are widely expressed in the nervous system and the neuroendocrine system. They respond to changes in both external environment (e.g temperature, chemicals and mechanical stimuli) and intracellular signalling by opening a pore across the membrane, thereby controlling the electrical activity of excitable nerve cells. TRP ion channels thus serve as sensors for monitoring changes in external and internal milieu, and have broad implications for both biomedical sciences and drug discovery.

Peripheral sensory neurons are highly heterogeneous and contain a diversity of functionally distinct subpopulations. Specific TRP ion channels expressed in specialized subpopulations of neurons determine neurons’ phenotype. For example, the TRPA1 ion channel marks a group of nociceptive neurons and TRPM8 defines a subpopulation of cold sensing neurons. On the other hand, the same TRP ion channel expressed in different subpopulations mediate distinct functions. For example, TRPA1 mediates pain in one subpopulation of neurons, but mediates itch in another subpopulation. We are interested in discovering the molecular determinants and signalling mechanisms underlying functional diversity of TRP ion channels in sensory neurons.

In the second line of our research, we investigate the expression and functions of TRP ion channels in the hypothalamus in the central nervous system and adipose tissues in the context of neuroendocrine system. Hypothalamic neurons and adipose tissues have emerged as critical sites for controlling body weight and energy balance by sensing circulating nutrients, hormones and metabolites. However, it is not known how these cells and tissues detect internal metabolic cues. Understanding this fundamental process will hold great promise for novel therapies against obesity and associated diseases.

Research training

The lab has extensive experience in electrophysiology, molecular biology and protein biochemistry. A broad range of training would be received by the student including different modes of patch clamping, molecular cloning, qRT-PCR, in situ hybridization, recombinant protein expression and purification, protein-protein interaction assays (e.g. GST pull down, coimmunoprecipitation), western blotting. The student would also receive training on animal behaviour assessment depending on the project.