Eduardo A. Perozo, Ph.D.

Most membrane proteins have moving parts that help execute their specific function, often in response to an external stimulus. Our research aims to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the transduction of different forms of energy into protein motion; in particular the different molecular mechanisms of ion channel gating.

We are equally interested in protein structure as in protein dynamics, for it is the dynamic behavior of a molecule what links structure to function. Therefore, we rely on spectroscopic methods, and in particular reporter group techniques (EPR, Fluorescence), to study channels and other membranen functional methods (single channel, macroscopic and gating current electro-physiological measurements). Using these strategies, we aim to answer the following long-term questi proteins embedded in a fluid lipid bilayer. Static structural analyses are pursued by X-ray crystallography. These structural techniques are all interpreted in the context of high-resolution functional methods (single channel, macroscopic and gating current electro-physiological measurements). Using these strategies, we aim to answer the following long-term question.