Mohamed Chahine

Biography

Mohamed Chahine is a world-renowned expert on the structure, function and biophysical properties of sodium channels, which are channels on the surface of cells that allow entry and exit of sodium ions. Sodium channels are specifically found in the brain and the heart, where they affect the function of cells. Dr. Chahine's research has led to the characterization of sodium channels involved in several disorders including hereditary chronic pain syndromes, forms of epilepsy and cases of cardiac arrhythmia. The studies of Pr Chahine's team have also led to a better understanding of the mechanism of action of several analgesic drugs, by showing they bind to sodium channels. Molecules that block sodium channels are used in particular as anticonvulsants (epilepsy), as analgesics (pain) and as antiarrhythmics (cardiac disorders). Professor Chahine's work has also suggested that some classes of antidepressants may interact with sodium channels. Advances in understanding how sodium channels work, and how they interact with different drugs, may lead to the identification of new therapeutic avenues for treating disorders associated with malfunctions of these essential channels.

Research Interest

Dr Chahine's research interest is the structure-function and biophysical properties of ion channels in the brain and heart. I possess extensive expertise in patch clamp electrophysiology, molecular biology, and biochemical techniques. I have a strong expertise in the molecular cloning and functional analysis of muscle and neuronal Na+ channels. While using classical techniques of electrophysiology I have also developed specific methodologies such as cut-open oocytes that allow a better control of the voltage of the oocytes which is mandatory for fast activating Na+ channels. Since arriving at Université Laval in 1994, I have applied my expertise to studying the biochemistry and functioning of ion channels in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of which domains and regulatory subunit are involved in various channel states, drug and toxin binding sites, and the topological arrangement of the channels in the membrane. I have also initiated several studies aimed at understanding the molecular mechanisms regulating the actions of local anaesthetics and several other drugs. I have combined all these complementary approaches to study sodium and potassium channelopathies in collaboration with many researchers locally around the world. My research is at the forefront of a developing wave of investigations aimed at linking the structure-function and pharmacology of ion channels.