Structure and Function of the Polycystic Kidney Disease Channel

The kidney senses and responds to physiological changes, such as pH, ionic strength, pressure, and nutrient levels. Sensing is mediated by a coupled sensor/ion channel complex called the Polycystic Kidney Disease Channel, which is composed of two subunits, the PKD1 (the primary sensor) and PKD2 (the channel). Continue reading → Structure and Function of the Polycystic Kidney Disease Channel

Research Statement

We are broadly interested in understanding atomic-sale mechanisms of how membrane proteins function under normal and diseased states. Membrane proteins play critical roles in nearly every aspect of physiological processes that encompass relaying signals between cells, transporting small molecules and ions across the membrane and catalyzing vital enzymatic reactions. Importantly, membrane proteins constitute ~60% of targets of currently approved drugs and thus in-depth knowledge about their inner workings is sorely needed to inform the development of effective therapeutic strategies for treating various human diseases.

Our current research program focuses on structure and function of receptors, transporters, and ion channels that are implicated in polycystic kidney diseases (PKD) – a widespread genetic disorder that affects 600,000 Americans and 12.5 million patients worldwide. Moreover, we are also interested in developing pharmacological tools (e.g. small chemical compounds, peptide toxins, and antibodies) for probing function of ion channels and receptors. Importantly, such molecules are also important leads that can potentially evolve into drugs for treating patients with PKD. To achieve these goals, we employ a multidisciplinary approach that includes molecular biology, protein biochemistry, pharmacology, ion channel electrophysiological, and X-ray crystallography and single- particle electron cryo-microscopy.

Cao Lab