Euan R. Brown

Euan Brown  is a biophysicist who works in the interface between Biomedical Science and Biophysics with particular emphasis on bioelectricity.  His current interests are focused on membrane ion channels and electrical sensing of membrane events for biomedical research and biomedical applications. 

Current Projects

A microfluidic chip for  MS research (funded by Medical Research Scotland and Epigem Ltd) and the Multiple Sclerosis Society. 

In collaboration with Dr Julia Edgar (UoG) and  Epigem Ltd, we are developing a neuronal chip with built- in electrical stimulation and measurement to study the excitability changes that occur in Multiple Sclerosis (MS).  The project involves combining culture of human stem cells, multi-electrode arrays and microfluidic technology.   This is a rapid and efficient way of studying the state of myelination in cultured tissues. 

A fast, low cost device to assess islet quality before clinical islet transplantation in man

In collaboration with Prof. Shareen Forbes (UoE) and Prof John Campbell (SNBTS) we are researching how to improve the viability of donor islets used in transplantation in Type i diabetes in humans.  We are integrating electrode arrays and microfluidics to build an efficient systems to assess islet quality. This project is funded by a MRC CiC award. 

Ligand and voltage-gated ion channels as sensors

We use  heterologously expressed hERG (human Ether-à-go-go-Related Gene product) cardiac (Kv 11.1) K+ channels in a medium throughput system for substance screening. This channel is key in stabilizing the regularity of heart beats. Drugs or substances (such as nanomaterials) that act on hERG have potential cardio- active properties. We are currently screening compounds on biomembranes such as bioactive fractions from marine sponges and nanomaterials. We will be developing microfluidic devices to solve drug concentration problems where the behaviour of substances in solution is dynamic (e.g Nanomedicines).

Role of voltage gated Calcium channels in excitability.

Many endocrine and neuronal cell classes are ‘spontaneously’ electrically active.  In this project we are examining the role of  voltage gated calcium channels (VGCC).   We are studying the  rules governing  the spatial- temporal organization of calcium channels in relation to other intracellular proteins to  understand how this behaviour develops and  is maintained.  These mechanisms can only be understood by combining high resolution imaging and advanced biophysical measurement of whole- cell and single calcium channel activity. We are developing the technology to couple TIRFM imaging and electrophysiology of calcium channels in muscle and synaptic zones. The results will have an impact on understanding the role of calcium channels in both health and disease and will push forward the associated technology.