Dong continues biotechnology, life sciences seminar series

Ke Dong
Ke Dong

"Voltage-gated Sodium Channels in Insects and Mammals: Comparison of Structure, Function and Toxin Sensitivity," will be presented by Ke Dong of Michigan State University at 4 p.m., April 2 in E103 Beadle Center. The free, public seminar will be preceded by a reception at 3:30 p.m.

Voltage-gated sodium channels are essential for the initiation and propagation of the action potential in neurons and other excitable cells. Because of their critical roles in electrical signaling, sodium channels are effective targets of a variety of naturally occurring and synthetic neurotoxins including pyrethroid insecticides. One major research focus in my laboratory is the study of the molecular biology, electrophysiology and pharmacology of sodium channels in insects. In this seminar, I will present our recent findings on the identification of a second pyrethroid receptor site on the sodium channel and discuss the similarities and differences in the structure, function and toxin sensitivity of insect vs. mammalian sodium channels.

The complete schedule of seminars may be found at http://biotech.unl.edu/.

More details at: http://go.unl.edu/efix