William A. Catterall

Research focuses on electrical signaling mechanisms in brain, nerve and muscle. Discovered the sodium ion channel and calcium ion channel proteins, which initiate action potentials, synaptic transmission, and muscle contraction. Determined the subcellular localization of these protein molecules in nerve cells. Studied the molecular mechanisms and regulation of voltage-dependent opening and closing ('gating') of these ion channels and the effects of paralytic neurotoxins on these processes. Analyzed the molecular mechanism of drug action on these ion channels, including local anesthetics and drugs used in therapy of epilepsy, cardiac arrhythmia, and hypertension. Determined the structure of a bacterial ancestor of sodium and calcium channels at atomic resolution. Now studies mouse genetic models of epilepsy, autism, cognitive impairment, and heart failure that involve dysfunction of sodium and calcium channels. Leads educational programs in pharmacology and neurobiology.