Department of Physiology Seminar Series
Donald L. Gill, Ph.D.
Professor
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
University of Maryland School of Medicine
Baltimore, Maryland
Room 4AB100, 11:00 - 12:00noon, Thursday, March 30, 2006
"TRP Channels and STIM Proteins –
New Insights into the Generation of Calcium Entry Signals"
RESEARCH DESCRIPTION
Calcium is one of the most fundamental signaling agents in all animal cells. Cells have evolved
to precisely control Ca2+ in the cytoplasm at levels that are 10,000-fold lower than outside cells.
This is accomplished by Ca2+ pumps in the plasma membrane (PM) and endoplasmic reticulum
(ER). We study the signals of Ca2+ which occur as a result of control of specific channels in the
PM and ER membrane which allow Ca2+ to flow into the cytosol. A slight elevation in the resting
cytosolic Ca2+ level is enough to trigger rapid cellular responses such contraction, secretion or
changes in the function of key metabolic enzymes. More sustained Ca2+ signals mediate crucial
longer term responses including cell growth, cell division, and cell death (apoptosis). My
laboratory studies signal transduction, meaning that we study how cells “transduce” external
signals into Ca2+ signals. Cells sense many different external signals through specific receptors
for chemical agents such as growth factors, neurotransmitters, and hormones, as well as receptors
for temperature, pressure, stretch, sound, and light. The cell converts the message received by
receptors into Ca2+ signals by precisely controlling the opening of Ca2+ channels. My lab uses a
combination of molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, and single cell physiological
approaches to understand how the Ca2+ channels are controlled. We use molecular biology to
mutate the channel proteins, create expression vectors, and to modify channel expression using
gene silencing approaches. We follow real-time Ca2+ signals in cells by sophisticated single cell
ratiometric fluorescence imaging technology. And we measure the precise biophysical properties
of channels using state-of the-art electrophysiological methods. The work centers on the analysis
of several distinct types of membrane channels including members of the now widely recognized
TRP family of channel proteins involved in transducing a remarkable array of external signals.
Our work draws together molecular and cellular approaches to understand the basic function and
physiological role of these channels which are critical to mediating essential cellular responses.
Persons with disabilities who may need auxiliary aids or services are requested to contact Josie
Martinez at least 24 hours prior to this seminar so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Department of Physiology: Josie Martinez
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An EEO/Affirmative Action Institution