Jeanne M. Nerbonne, PhD

Appointments

Alumni Endowed Professor of Molecular Biology and Pharmacology
Professor of Medicine and Developmental Biology
Co-Director, Center for the Investigation of Membrane Excitability Diseases

Research Interests

Our research is focused on delineating the molecular, cellular and systemic mechanisms involved in the dynamic regulation and dysregulation of cardiac and neuronal membrane excitability. Combining biochemical, electrophysiological, immunohistochemical and molecular genetic approaches, we are:

Detailing the biophysical properties and the functional roles of the voltage-gated potassium (Kv) and sodium (Nav) ion channels expressed in different myocardial and neuronal cell types;
Defining the functional roles of Nav and Kv channels in shaping the waveforms of individual action potentials and in controlling repetitive and rhythmic firing;
Identifying the molecular components of native neuronal and myocardial Kv and Nav channels;
Identifying the cellular and molecular mechanisms contributing to the physiological regulation of native myocardial and neuronal Kv and Nav channel expression, distribution and functioning
Delineating the transcriptional and post-transcriptional remodeling of myocardial Kv and Nav channels in cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure

A major focus of ongoing work is on defining the roles of accessory proteins in controlling the functional cell surface expression and biophysical properties of myocardial Kv and Nav channels. Additionally, we are probing the mechanisms underlying Kv and Nav channel remodeling in the hypertrophied and failing heart and in other myocardial diseases associated with cardiac rhythm disturbances.

In parallel efforts, we are exploring the molecular basis of native neuronal Kv and Nav channel diversity and the mechanisms controlling the expression, trafficking, localization and properties of these channels in cerebellar, suprachiasmatic nucleus and cortical neurons, as well as how these channels are differentially affected in inherited and acquired neurological disorders.