Cellular neurophysiology of hippocampal neurons, modulation of ion channel activity
My research is directed toward understanding the cellular mechanisms underlying modulation of electrophysiological activity in neurons of the central nervous system. Since calcium entry and accumulation into cells is known to be an important regulator of neuronal activity, my research has been focused on the properties of voltage-gated calcium channels in neurons and presynaptic terminals and release of calcium from intracelluar stores in the adult hippocampal formation. Since modulation of other ionic channels can also indirectly affect calcium metabolism in neurons, they are also candidates for research projects.
We use a combination of electrical (patch-clamp) methods and ion-sensitive dyes to measure transmembrane calcium currents and intracellular calcium levels in hippocampal neurons and mossy-fiber presynaptic terminals. A combination of optical and patch-clamp recording techniques allow us to simultaneously monitor the electrical activity, intracellular calcium levels, and their interactions in hippocampal neurons.