Kotlikoff, Michael I.

Dean

research

research and scholarship focus

  • Molecular processes underlying excitation-contraction coupling, particularly in smooth muscle cells
  • Role of specific sarcoplasmic reticular calcium release channels and sarcolemmal ion channels in cellular excitation and relaxation
  • Gene targeting, identification of novel genes through genomics screens, patch clamp measurements of ion channel function, confocal and wide-field imaging, and protein biochemistry
  • Identify genes encoding channel proteins and relating signaling molecules involved in muscle biology and to determine the extent to which these genes are altered in specific disease processes

  • Study of the role of the ryanodine receptor complex in smooth muscle contraction

  • Combine genetics, molecular design, and optical technologies to advance the understanding of physiological processes

  • Use of gene trap methods to identify novel genes involved in muscle biology and the creation of transgenic mice to facilitate determination of their functions
  • Investigation of the role of specific sarcolemmal ion channels in muscle excitation, rythmicity, and relaxation using conditional gene targeting methods in mice

research areas

affiliations

head of

faculty appointment in

administrative appointment

member of graduate field

other Cornell affiliations

service

Keywords: cellular excitation and relaxation, molecular processes underlying excitation-contraction coupling, sarcolemnal ion channels, sarcoplasmic reticular calcium release channels