Our continuing studies on cardiac tissue have direct implications for the reversible (arrhythmias and stunning) and irreversible (necrosis/apoptosis) damage that occurs during myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury. In this regard, it is a current focus of my laboratory’s research program to provide important new information on the cellular ionic events that occur during IR injury and identify mechanisms that may be harnessed to reduce myocardial damage. Specifically we are studying the roles of ATP-sensitive potassium channels and sodium/calcium exchangers (NCX1) in the etiology of IR injury, cardiac surgery and transplantation. (research funded by operating grants from the CIHR). Molecular biology of NCX1 splice variants

Another aspect of our research program is the study of the ionic events that control insulin secretion and how dysfunction can lead to impaired/incorrect insulin secretion contributing to the development of type II diabetes. In pancreatic beta-cells, hormonal and metabolic control of ion channel and exchanger function is crucial in transducing the correct insulin secretory response. We are studying the links between common genetic variations in the ATP-sensitive potassium channel in relation to fat metabolism. See how KATP channels control insulin secretion.

Single channel recording of KATP channels


Molecular biology of the KATP channel

We are also investigating the potential for development of novel "glucose-sensitive" therapeutic agents that target ion transport processes within the beta-cell.
(funded by operating grants from the CDA and the CIHR)
Our lab is a member of the islet signalling group within the Alberta Diabetes Institute.

The "Edmonton protocol" has now become the gold standard for islet transplantation. However, there is still a clear need to improve both the longevity and function of the islet grafts. My lab is using molecular and gene delivery techniques in the in vitro donor islets to facilitate islet graft survival and insulin secretory capacity. (funded by a pilot grant from the ADI and JDRF)