Functional interactions between mammalian mechanotransduction proteins

• Applicants: Dr. Paul A. Heppenstall; Professor Gary Richard Lewin, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
• Term: from 2007 to 2012
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 44417909

Interactions between a family of proteins that contain a stomatin signature domain and a family of ion channels called ASICs, appear to be necessary for normal mechanosensation in the mouse. Our data also indicate that at least one stomatindomain containing protein called SLP3 is required for the function of mechanosensitive channels in sensory neurons. This project aims to define in detail the molecular interactions between stomatin proteins and mechanosensitive channels, including proton gated ASIC channels using electrophysiology and FRET. In addition, we wish to use in vivo molecular tagging techniques to identify novel molecular components of the mechanotransduction complex in mammalian sensory neurons. The characterization of molecular complexes necessary for mechanosensation will for the first time permit the development of strategies for the pharmacological manipulation of mechanosensation.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants