Deciphering the Molecular Mechanisms of Ion Channels and Prenyltransferases Modulation
Every cell in our body is engaged in a constant dialogue with its surroundings. These dynamic exchanges transmit vital information that powers cellular processes and enables adaptation to changing environments. At the Haitin Lab, we use state-of-the-art molecular techniques to investigate the structural mechanisms that govern two essential enzyme families:
- Ion channels, which control the flow of ions across cell membranes and orchestrate electrical and signaling events.
- Prenyltransferases, which synthesize key molecules used for protein modification and cellular regulation.
Our work focuses on uncovering how these molecular machines carry out their critical roles and how their dysfunction contributes to diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Enzymes, as biological catalysts, lie at the heart of cellular life. Their remarkable efficiency depends on their intricate three-dimensional structures, dynamic conformational changes, and finely tuned regulatory mechanisms. Our research aims to understand how these structural features translate into specialized cellular functions.
With ion channels and prenyltransferases implicated in multiple disease pathways, our ultimate goal is to provide molecular insights that can guide the development of new, targeted therapeutic strategies.
Current Research Interests:
- Deciphering how molecular architecture translates into specialized enzyme activity.
- Elucidating the mechanisms by which ion channel and prenyltransferase dysfunction drive human disease.
- Exploring future avenues for developing targeted therapies based on these insights.
Funding:
- 2025 Israel Science Foundation, MARVI Grant
- 2024 United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation (BSF)
- 2024 Israel Cancer Research Fund (ICRF)
- 2021 Israel Science Foundation, Personal Grant
