Jie Song

This study will focus particularly on conotoxins interacting with Kv channels and on new peptides from other conoideans (Turridae, Terebridae). The goal of my research is to characterise these conoidean peptides through tests with voltage-gated potassium channels which can be considered as potential drug targets for the treatment of patients suffering from neurological disease, diabetes mellitus and pain. There are over 40 known human voltage-gated potassium channels, which are directly or indirectly correlated to important physiological functions. Kv1 channels play fundamental roles in repolarisation of membranes and are physiological important within different diseases. Their function can be modulated by conopeptides through different interaction mechanisms. The first step of this research will be concentrated on interaction of κ-conotoxins with Kv1 channels. With this research project I intent to elucidate the structure, function and regulation of interaction between κ-conotoxins and Kv1 channels. The second step of this research will be focused on interaction of other not yet characterised conoidean peptides from Conidae, Turridae or Terebridae with Kv channels. The venoms thereof are regarded as a potential rich and unexplored pharmacological resource. Turridae can be found in the North Sea and the Baltic See. With this study some conoidean peptides from these families will be investigated and evaluated as new potential potassium channel modulators. These peptides will be identified on the base of knowledge and experience from step one.