New generation of high-resolution mapping techniques for studying the refractory phase of slow wave activity in the stomach

Stomach contractions are governed by an underlying bio-electrical event known as slow wave activity. Slow wave dysrhythmias have been linked to a number of major digestive disorders. The recent development and application of high-resolution electrical mapping techniques has enabled critical advances in understanding normal and dysrhythmic patterns of gastric slow wave activity.

A key hypothesis developed from these studies was that the refractory phase of gastric slow wave activity could be a significant factor in the initiation and maintenance of dysrhythmic patterns. This project will aim to develop a new generation of high-resolution mapping techniques for studying the refractory phase of slow wave activity in the stomach. It will focus on the following novel techniques:

1. A high-resolution multi-electrode mapping device that makes contact with the stomach and records monophasic electrical potentials. Our novel high-resolution mapping analysis techniques will be applied to reconstruct the sequence of the underlying gastric electrical activation.

2. Investigate the mechanisms involved in perpetuating gastric dysrhythmias. In particular, interventional approach such as selective ion blockers and pacing will be applied in an experimental model to assess electrical activation and recovery propagation.

3. Through our collaboration with Professor Jack Rogers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB, USA) and Faculty of Medical and Health Science at UoA, we will apply optical mapping techniques to the stomach. Optical mapping involves the use of voltage sensitive dyes and optical sensors to map electrical patterns, enabling analysis of repolarisation of gastric electrical activity with outstanding spatial and temporal resolution.

The candidate will have the opportunity to work with leading bioengineers and clinicians in extracellular mapping at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute and the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB, USA). You will devise, design, develop and construct novel electrode platforms and apply them in experimental studies. You will also be involved in developing and applying novel signal processing techniques to analyse and interpret findings. The findings will be used to define the mechanisms of the initiation, maintenance and termination of complex slow wave dysthymias recorded clinically.

Candidate requirements:
An ideal candidate should have interests in
1. device prototyping/development and electrode construction
2. experimental electrophysiology
3. signal processing, quantitative analysis and data presentation
4. engineering, physics and applied maths