Joao Luis Carvalho De Souza
Work Summary
My lab is investigating noncanonical mechanisms involved in the modulation (activation, inactivation, and deactivation) of the activity of voltage-gated ion channels by the membrane electric potential. This aspect of ion channels is key to understand many diseases caused by defective ion channels expressed in neurons and muscular cells. My lab is also interested in developing a technique that enables light sensitivity to the membrane potential of genetically unmodified cells. With that technique one can control neuronal activity with pulses of light, an experimental and/or therapeutic capability always desired in neuroscience. We are currently applying this technique in mice with the goal to restore useful vision when the photoreceptors in the retina are not functional.