Cation Channels

Study reveals that the body uses different sensors to detect cold in the skin and in internal organs

Researchers found that the skin relies on TRPM8 sensor for cold detection, while internal organs primarily use TRPA1 sensor. This difference explains variations in external and internal cold perception, and has implications for understanding thermal homeostasis and pathologies related to cold sensitivity.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalActa Physiologica·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2025

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Researchers uncover new mechanism of ion transport in nanofiltration membranes

A research team discovered a counter-ion competition mechanism that explains the superiority of negatively charged nanofiltration membranes in separating lithium and magnesium ions. This finding provides critical insights for designing next-generation NF membranes with tailored ion selectivity.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2025

Study identifies potential new treatment target for sleep apnea

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified TRPM7, a cation channel in carotid bodies and bloodstream, as a promising therapeutic target for sleep apnea. Blocking or eliminating this channel may offer a new treatment option for obesity-related breathing disorders.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateOct 31, 2022

Channel makeover bioengineered to switch off neurons

Scientists have developed a new tool for controlling brain circuit activity using light pulses, allowing for precise control over neuron function. The breakthrough, funded by the NIH, could lead to future therapeutic applications in managing pain and understanding mental illnesses.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalScience·DateApr 24, 2014

Small change makes a big difference for ion channels

University of Illinois researchers used a high-resolution single-molecule study technique to see subtle differences between two branches of neurotransmitter-gated ion channels. They found that changing the position of an amino acid changes its properties, allowing cation-selective channels to regulate excitation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·DateJun 2, 2011

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New perspectives on ion selectivity

Contributors from different disciplines discuss ion selectivity using crystal structures, electrophysiology, and computational methods. The series provides an ongoing forum for experts to discuss scientific questions and controversies.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateApr 25, 2011