Dr. Sudweeks studies neurotransmitter receptors that act as ion channels. These ligand-gated ion channels are involved in synaptic transmission and are implicated in several pathological conditions. They are also the pharmacological targets in many therapeutic situations. These ion channels are expressed in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Specific receptors for the neurotransmitters gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin (5-HT3), glycine (GlyR), and acetylcholine (nAChRs) are all members of the ligand-gated ion channel superfamily.
Biography
1992. B.S. Microbiology (Molecular Biology), BYU
1997. Ph.D. Pharmacology, Univ. of Utah
1997-2001. Postdoctoral fellowship, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, RTP NC
2014, February - July, visiting professor, Laboratory of Dr. Jie Wu, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona
Research Interests
Characterization of ligand-gated ion channels in neurotransmission. Ligand-gated ion channels are involved in normal synaptic communication and also in pathological conditions (e.g., epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, motor disorders, and schizophrenia). They are also the pharmacological targets in many therapeutic situations (e.g., general anesthetics, sedatives, antiemetics, and some novel analgesics). These ion channels are multi-subunit protein complexes that act as neurotransmitter receptors in the central and peripheral nervous systems.
Teaching Interests
Physiology, Pharmacology, Biophysics, & Neuroscience