Dr. Philippe Séguéla is primarily interested in the molecular basis of hyperexcitability in the brain and in sensory pathways. Fast synaptic communication required for pain perception, motor control and memory is mediated by the activation of post-synaptic receptor-channels. Dr. Séguéla's group u...
Dr. Philippe Séguéla is primarily interested in the molecular basis of hyperexcitability in the brain and in sensory pathways. Fast synaptic communication required for pain perception, motor control and memory is mediated by the activation of post-synaptic receptor-channels. Dr. Séguéla's group uses a multidisciplinary approach based on recombinant DNA methodology, biochemistry and electrophysiological recordings in mammalian neurons, transfected cells and the Xenopus oocyte expression system. The laboratory is investigating the functional diversity of several excitatory ion channels---the ATP-gated P2X receptors, the proton-gated ASICs and the TRP channels---to understand their contribution to neurological pathologies (chronic pain, epilepsy, stroke).