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Functional Physiology

  • account_circleKunitoshi UchidaPhD, Assoc. Prof.
Elucidating the physiological significance of thermosensation
Physiological and pathological roles of thermosensitive ion channels
All living organisms, including humans, are exposed to large environmental changes. We sense these changes using various cellular receptors, and our tissues and organs adjust in order to maintain healthy in vivo functioning. For example, in response to fluctuations in environmental temperatures, body temperature is maintained through changes in metabolism, circulatory function, and so on. In our laboratory, we seek to understand the mechanisms of temperature-sensing in cells and organisms in response to internal and external temperature changes. We do this by investigating the physiological roles of thermoreceptors such as the thermosensitive TRP (transient receptor potential) channels (Figure 1). Moreover, we aim to clarify the physiological significance of temperature-sensing and to understand the impact of temperature, a physical entity, on living organisms (Figure 2). Through our work, we hope to gain an understanding of pathological conditions that are related to temperature-sensing and thermoreceptors.
1. The mechanisms by which cells sense temperatures

To understand the mechanisms by which the thermoreceptors detect temperature changes and convert them into electrical signals, we use an in vitro reconstruction system. We study thermoreceptors using patch-clamp electrophysiology of cultured cells, and bilayer lipid membrane methods consisting of only purified sensor molecules, lipids, and electrolytes.

2. Involvement of thermosensitive ion channels in energy metabolism

Among the cells involved in metabolism, we focus on brown adipocytes (residing in brown adipose tissue) and beige adipocytes (residing in white adipose tissue, and are induced by cold exposure) that produce heat and expend the energy. We investigate the roles of thermoreceptors in brown and beige adipocytes and the involvement of these cells in metabolic syndromes by using cultured cells and mouse models.

3. Search for ligands that act on thermoreceptors and the study of their application for preventing and treating pathological conditions

Since thermoreceptors are activated by many substances such as capsaicin, the pungent compound in hot peppers (Figure 1), we search for substances from foods and pharmaceuticals that act on thermoreceptors, using fluorescence imaging and patch-clamp methods. We also investigate the effects of these substances on pathological mouse models, including those of metabolic disease and chronic pain.

Figure 1
Thermosensitive transient receptor potential (TRP) channels
Figure 2
Research goal and strategies
References
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