Australia Linlin Ma
- ■ Organisation┃Griffith University
- ■ Job Title┃Senior Lecture in Biomedical Science
- ■ Area(s) of Expertise
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology > Cell Biology
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology > Molecular Biology
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology > Physiology
- ■ Connection with Australia or Korea
University of Adelaide
University of South Australia
The University of Queensland
Flinders University
Griffith University
Contact via e-mail >
■ Overview of expertise
As a molecular and cellular biologist and physiologist specializing in ion channel research, I delve into the intricate dynamics of pore-forming membrane proteins, known as ion channels. These proteins play a crucial role in regulating the diffusion of ions across biological membranes, thereby driving a host of biological processes, ranging from neuronal excitability to T-cell activation and insulin secretion. Dysfunction in these ion channels can result in a spectrum of diseases, including epilepsy, cystic fibrosis, chronic pain and neurodegenerative diseases.
My primary research interest lies in understanding the gating properties and functional attributes of specific ion channels within relevant pathological contexts. My lab employs techniques drawn from molecular biology, cell biology, electrophysiology, and protein biochemistry. Our focus is directed toward uncovering the pathological roles of potassium and calcium channels in neurological diseases, with a particular emphasis on Parkinson's disease. We're also engaged in the identification of new channel modifiers derived from natural resources.
Our research utilizes knockout mouse models and patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to probe how our biological targets influence the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. Methodologies employed range from animal behavioral tests, immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), RNA sequencing, and confocal imaging to patch clamping.
