Research subject Methods for simulations of biological systems

Membrane proteins are of exceptional importance for transport and signalling in the cell, and pumps and channels in particular are key examples of proteins that adopt different conformational states as part of cycles that define their function.

Pentameric ligand-gated channels mediate signals across the kingdoms of life and are highly sensitive to modulators such as benzodiazepines or alcohol. Recent advances in cryo-EM have enabled us to identify and obtain structures of several new channels, including new prokaryotic model systems and heteromeric channels in the human nervous system.