Potassium (K⁺) channels control the flow of K⁺ across cell membranes by opening and closing in a regulated manner. Alterations in K⁺ concentration play key roles in several physiological processes such as electrolyte balance, cell signaling, and controlling cellular electrical activity. Consequently these channels are of particular interest clinically and pharmaceutically as channel dysfunction results in a wide range of metabolic, cardiac and neuronal pathologies.

This study aims to investigate K⁺ channel regulation and conduction and correlate this with structural changes that occur. In order to achieve this we are combining crystallization and structure analysis with development of reliable functional assays that can be used to rapidly assess the effects of mutations, derivatisation, and the presence of lipids and other small molecules on channel activity. Interesting conditions or channel mutants identified in our assays can then be characterized further using more in-depth methodologies. These may include single channel recordings of channels reconstituted into giant unilamellar liposomes (GUVs) as well as structural studies through the use of crystallography.