About the Lab

The MacLean lab studies how the structure of neurotransmitter-gated ion channels produces their unique biophysical and functional properties and how these properties enable the receptors to fulfill specific roles in the brain. We focus on two families of ion channels: ionotropic Glutamate Receptors (iGluRs) and Acid Sensing Ion Channels (ASICs).

To better understand these channels we combine patch clamp electrophysiology, kinetic and molecular modelling, fluorescence spectroscopy, flow cytometry, unnatural amino acid incorporation and basic molecular biochemical techniques.