Physiology and pharmacology of nematode ion channels

Cys-loop family of pentameric ligand-gated ion channels (pLGCs) play crucial roles in fast neurotransmission, which thereby contributes to fundamental nervous system functions in animals, such as motion and learning. The most diverse pLGCs superfamily known is found in nematodes, and the Cys-loop pLGCs are encoded by over 100 genes in C.elegans. However, the ligands and physiological functions of most pLGCs are still unraveled. In the previous study of our lab, five members of a superfamily of Cys-loop pLGCs have been deorphanized and characterized with the combination of heterologous expression and two-electrode voltage clamp (TEVC). In this study, we will extend it to clinical nematodes to uncover the corresponding ligands and properties of new Cys-loop LGCs. Meanwhile, with the potentials that Cys-loop pLGCs might be target points of novel antihelminthics, we would also implement compounds screening in different levels to find out effective molecules as antihelminthics.