ION CHANNEL PHYSIOLOGY
June 4 - 24, 2008
Application Deadline: March 15, 2008

Instructors:
Beverley Clark, University College London
Jeffrey Diamond, National Institutes of Health
Mark Farrant, University College London
Michael Hausser, University College London
Co-Instructor:
Miguel Holmgren, National Institutes of Health/NINDS

The primary goal of this course is to investigate, through lectures and laboratory work, the properties of ion channels that allow neurons to carry out their unique physiological functions in a variety of neural systems. Areas of particular interest include channels that (1) are activated by neurotransmitter at central and peripheral synapses, (2) are activated by voltage changes in axons and dendrites, (3) respond to neuromodulators with changes in functional properties, or (4) are developmentally required and regulated. The research interests of guest lecturers reflect these areas of emphasis.

The laboratory component of the course introduces students to electrophysiological approaches for the study of ion channels in their native environments. Hands-on exercises include patch-clamp recording of ion channel activity in acutely isolated or cultured cells or neurons in brain slice preparations. Different recording configurations are used (e.g. whole-cell, cell-free, and nucleated patches) to examine macroscopic or single-channel activity. Similarly, various methods of ligand and drug application are demonstrated. The advantages and disadvantages of each method, preparation and recording technique are considered in relation to the specific scientific questions being asked. Admissions priority is given to students and postdocs with a demonstrated interest, specific plans, and a supportive environment to apply these techniques to a defined problem.

Guest speakers in 2007 included:
Clay Armstrong, University of Pennsylvania
John Isaac, Developmental Synaptic/NINDS
Jeffry Isaacson, UCSD
Amy Lee, Emory University
Jeffrey Magee, LSU HSC
Steven Siegelbaum, Columbia University
Ivan Soltesz, University of California, Irvine
Nelson Spruston, Northwestern University
Kenton Swartz, National Institutes of Health

This course is supported by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute

Scientists from developing countries accepted into this course may be eligible for scholarships provided by the International Brain Research Organization (Click here for details)

Cost (including board and lodging): $3,850
Currency converter