Jianhan Chen, Ph.D.
Abstract
Ion channels regulate the flow of ions through membranes in numerous cellular processes and are broadly involved in various human diseases. They generally contain gating elements that open and close to control the ion flow of ions. Identification of the gate and particularly gating mechanism can be very challenging. This talk will illustrate how large-scale atomistic simulations can play a key role in uncovering the hidden gates of ion channels, using calcium-gated big potassium (BK) channels. Combining atomistic simulations and functional data, we showed that a physical gate is not required for gating of BK channels. Instead, so-called hydrophobic dewetting gives rise to a vapor phase in the pore’s central cavity to block intracellular access of ions to the selectivity filter in the Ca2+-free deactivated state.
When: October 25, 2024
Where: North Classroom 1130
Time: 11:00 am - 12:00pm