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A Double Lock Gates Calcium Signaling
Recent studies settle a debate over how the second messenger NAADP, with no known binding site, evokes calcium release from ion channels. 
A Double Lock Gates Calcium Signaling
A Double Lock Gates Calcium Signaling

Recent studies settle a debate over how the second messenger NAADP, with no known binding site, evokes calcium release from ion channels. 

Recent studies settle a debate over how the second messenger NAADP, with no known binding site, evokes calcium release from ion channels. 

ion channels

Two neurons send electrical signals to each other.
Eavesdropping on Ion Channels Using the Patch Clamp Technique
Laura Tran, PhD | Sep 13, 2024 | 10+ min read
Cells send electrical impulses throughout the body, but electrophysiologists struggled to tune into these signals until the patch clamp technique was developed.
Illuminated drawing of gastrointestinal tract overlayed on woman’s hands and torso
“Gut Feeling” Takes on New Meaning
Iris Kulbatski, PhD | Jan 23, 2023 | 4 min read
Mechanically sensitive gut cells similar to touch sensors in the skin allow the intestine to feel and assess the physical properties of its contents.
Measure Intracellular Calcium in Live Cells
From Imaging to Kinetics: Measuring Calcium Signaling
Tecan | Sep 27, 2021 | 1 min read
Streamlining and automating cell-based assays for measuring intracellular calcium.
Gaining Biological Insights into Brain Development Using Single Cell Technologies
Gaining Biological Insights into Brain Development Using Single Cell Technologies
The Scientist Creative Services Team in collaboration with 10x Genomics | Apr 12, 2021 | 1 min read
Richard Smith will discuss the importance of ionic flux in in utero neuronal development.
Barbara Pickard, Plant Mechanosensory Researcher, Dies
Emily Makowski | Jan 13, 2020 | 2 min read
The mechanobiologist at Washington University in St. Louis studied how plants sense their environment.
sei proteins help protect flies from heat-induced seizures
Image of the Day: Seizure Proteins
Nicoletta Lanese | Aug 14, 2019 | 1 min read
The sei ion channel in fruit flies keeps their neuronal excitability in check.
The Scientist’s Most Stunning Infographics of 2018
Jef Akst | Dec 21, 2018 | 2 min read
From cellular self-digestion to the effects of exercise on the brain, our features editor picks her favorite art custom-made for the magazine.
Image of the Day: Electrify
Sukanya Charuchandra | Aug 9, 2018 | 1 min read
Researchers have identified what makes synapses strong or weak in fruit flies.
Glia Guru
Anna Azvolinsky | May 1, 2017 | 9 min read
Ben Barres recast glial cells from supporting actors to star performers, crucial for synaptic plasticity in the brain and for preventing neurodegenerative disorders.
How Hot Peppers Can Ease Pain
Anna Azvolinsky | Feb 11, 2015 | 3 min read
Researchers uncover one way capsaicin—the spicy compound found in chili peppers—provides pain relief.  
Cutting the Wire
Jeffrey M. Perkel | Dec 1, 2014 | 8 min read
Optical techniques for monitoring action potentials
Cool Genes
Kate Yandell | Jul 1, 2013 | 2 min read
A thermosensitive ion channel helps C. elegans live longer at cold temperatures.
Deafness Gene Heightens Touch
Tia Ghose | Nov 20, 2011 | 3 min read
People with a defect in an ion channel that causes deafness are more sensitive to certain types of touch.
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