Voltage-gated Calcium Channels

Research interests

The pancreatic beta-cell is equipped with multiple types of voltage-gated calcium (Ca_V) channels including Ca_V1.2, Ca_V1.3, Ca_V2.1, Ca_V2.2, Ca_V2.3, Ca_V3.1 and Ca_V3.2. These Ca_V channels are critical for beta-cell function and viability. Well-regulated beta-cell Ca_V channels mediate appropriate Ca²⁺ entry to ensure adequate functional beta-cell mass, thereby maintaining satisfactory insulin release and glucose homeostasis in the body. Disturbances in beta-cell Ca_V channels, resulting from their mutation, altered expression and dysregulation, impair insulin secretion and even drive beta-cell destruction due to insufficient or excessive Ca²⁺ influx. Consequently, this leads to insulin deficiency, resultant hyperglycemia and diabetes. Effective treatments for diabetes critically rely on molecular target- and mechanism-based therapies. Beta-Cell Ca_V channels and their regulation mechanisms and signaling pathways most likely serve as druggable targets for medical intervention of Ca²⁺-dependent beta-cell death in association with diabetes. Our research primarily focuses on beta-cell Ca_V channels and their regulation mechanisms and signaling pathways in health and diabetes.

We perform our research work both in vitro and in vivo by combining the patch clamp technique, fluorescence microscopy, biochemical methods, cellular and molecular approaches. Our research aims to gain in-depth understanding of the role of Ca_V channels in pancreatic beta-cell physiology and pathophysiology, to acquire mechanistic knowledge on the development of diabetes and to develop innovative therapeutic approaches against diabetes.

Project leader