Bonner Wissenschaftsnacht 2026 - Insights into ion channel research

Ever since the famous frog leg experiments by the Italian Luigi Galvani (1737-1798), we have known that the physiological processes of living organisms are accompanied by electrical phenomena. These phenomena, summarised under the term 'animal electricity', remained a mystery until well into the 20th century. It was only through work on the nerve cells of squid that it finally became clear: bioelectricity is due to changes in the permeability of cell membranes for electrically charged particles (ions).

Today we know that tunnel-shaped proteins, so-called ion channels, are responsible for this permeability. These are found in the cell membranes of all living organisms and react to certain stimuli by opening or closing their pore. The interaction of various ion channels, which differ in terms of their preference for certain ions and their sensitivity to stimuli, is the basis of numerous bodily functions, including the beating of our heart and the formation of our thoughts, as well as our perception of the world around us and the sensation of pain. The importance of ion channels becomes particularly apparent when their function is disrupted.
Such malfunctions, which are caused by genetic changes for example, can lead to diseases such as cardiac arrhythmia, high blood pressure or Parkinson's disease. Research into the functioning of ion channels therefore not only contributes to a better understanding of processes in the healthy body, but also expands the possibilities for developing new therapies.

In this lecture, Oliver Rauh will give a brief introduction to research into bioelectrical phenomena and then go into more detail about the projects of the CytoTransport research network (H-BRS), whose aim is to understand the role of ion channels in organs as diverse as the kidneys and the brain.

More information on the Cytrotransport project
 

Admission

The event is free of charge and can be attended without registration.