Euan R. Brown

Euan Brown works in the interface between Biomedical Science and Biophysics with particular emphasis on bioelectricity.  His current interests are focused on membrane ion channels which are nanoscale molecular machines (proteins) that permit membrane based signals such as secretion, neurotransmission and electrical conduction to occur.  Native and abiotic ion channels have great potential in the field of bioengineering and drug discovery.

Current Projects

Ligand and voltage-gated ion channels as sensors

Current projects involve the use of 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 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.

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

In collaboration with 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 involve combining culture of human stem cells, multi-electrode arrays and microfluidic technology.