Washington University in St. Louis (WU)
I am an electrophysiologist and yes, I really enjoy looking at electrical currents. I started working on measuring voltage-sensing modules (VSMs) of CaV1.1 calcium channels and the associated gating of RyR1 channels in the sarcoplasmic reticulum, in skeletal muscle (Excitation Contraction Coupling). After a few years, I explored other Ion channels, including potassium, sodium, and chloride channels, in different systems and tissues, from cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle cells to neurons and spermatozoa. I am interested in understanding how the modulation of ion channels by different factors can affect organ physiology and human or animal behavior. Particularly, I am exploring how the regulation of potassium, sodium, and Calcium channels can modulate uterine excitability (frequency and intensity of uterus contractions during pregnancy) and sperm fertilization power. I am also interested in exploring the involvement of potassium channels in the regulation of milk excretion and parenthood behavior/bonding after pregnancy.