Physiological regulation of epithelial TRP channels TRPV5 and TRPM6 in healt and disease

The maintenance of the Ca2+ and Mg2+ balance is of crucial importance for many vital physiological functions including neuronal excitability, muscle contraction and bone formation. In healthy adults, the renal excretion of Ca2+ and Mg2+ is critically balanced by gastrointestinal absorption. A major breakthrough in completing the molecular details of the above-mentioned pathways was the identification of the Transient Receptor Potential channel (TRP) superfamily. Our group identified and characterized the epithelial Ca2+ channel family that consists of two members TRPV5 and TRPV6. Recently, another TRP channel (TRPM6) was postulated as the epithelial Mg2+ influx mechanism. The epithelial Ca2+ channels could be involved in the multifactorial pathogenesis of disorders ranging from idiopathic hypercalciuria, stone disease and postmenopausal osteoporosis, whereas TRPM6 was mutated in patients with hypomagnesemia with secondary hypocalcemia (HSH). TRPV5, TRPV6 and TRPM6 display the defining properties for being the gatekeepers in active Ca2+ and Mg2+ (re)absorption and are prime targets for hormonal control of Ca2+ and Mg2+ flux from the luminal space to the blood compartment. Our studies focus on molecular regulatory mechanisms to understand the physiological function of these unique epithelial ion channels. To this end, the functional activity of these channels is measured in various cell lines heterogeneously expressing TRPV5, TRPV6 and TRPM6. Recent studies in our group revealed interesting regulatory binding-partners that modulate the activity of these TRP channels. Projects aim to unravel the mechanism of epithelial TRP channel regulation and therefore Ca2+ and Mg2+ (re)absorption to provide insight in the molecular basis of Ca2+ and Mg2+ balance-related diseases.

PhD in biomedical/physiological sciences or related field.

Strong proficiency in molecular biological / biochemical procedures.

Good track record of scientific publications.

Experience of working with recombinant ion channels expressed in cell lines is desirable.

Other important qualities of the appointee will be enthusiasm, motivation, flexibility, willingness to learn, and the ability to work and interact with others in an energetic and supportive research group.

Major research duties and responsibilities for this position:
Execution of TOP level research using multi-disciplinary approaches.
Data analysis and interpretation.

Contribution towards preparation and submission of manuscripts.

Postdoc position is for maximally three years