Objective
In neurons, endo- and exocrine cells, a rise in cytosolic [Ca], [Ca]i, triggers exocytosis. Via exocytosis, neurons secrete transmitter and endocrine cells hormones; perhaps also the repair of plasma membranes requires Ca-triggered exocytosis. In each cell Ca causes exocytosis of multiple vesicle types. Also, Ca can vary significantly from one place in a cell to another, at least transiently. Hence cells are thought capable of selectively exocytosing some vesicles and not others. Indeed, cells vary strikingly in how they increase [Ca]i. Some open (voltage- or ligand-gated) Ca channels in the plasma membrane. Others release Ca from one or more of the internal stores presently known. Each Ca channel and each Ca store raises [Ca]i in a different location.
The project will explore how and where in the cytosol different cells increase [Ca]i. Tests will be made to see whether different ways of raising [Ca]i trigger exocytosis of different vesicle types, to explore how exocytosis is coupled to Ca, and to see how this coupling is modulated by second messenger pathways. Patch clamp, microfluorimetry, voltammetry and other microanalytic methods will be used to raise and measure [Ca]i in single cells, and to monitor secretion from these cells. Cells explored will include neurons, neuroendocrine cells, liver and kidney cells and fibroblasts.
Topic(s)
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
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69120 Heidelberg
Germany