This course is designed for students who are interested in understanding the essential elements and fundamental mechanisms underlying membrane excitability of cells such as neurons, myocytes, and endocrine cells. It highlights the biophysical properties and molecular structure of voltage-gated and ligand-gated ion channels. It covers major classes of ion channels and their integrative role in controlling membrane excitability and cell physiology. It provides advanced information of regulation of ion channels properties and membrane expression, mechanisms of ion channel block, and ion channel related diseases. It also discusses the past and current perspectives of ion channel research. Reading material will be provided prior to lectures.
Prerequisites:
PSL(300H, 301H)/302Y or equivalent
Evaluation:
Mid-term examination - 30%, Final examination - 30%, Assignment - 30%, Class participation - 10%
