Jim Putney

Biography

Calcium signaling in non-excitable cells is most generally initiated by mobilization of Ca2+ from intracellular stores by the second messenger, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3). Although it is clear that the locus of this intracellular store of Ca2+ is either a part of or is derived from endoplasmic reticulum, the precise locus of these calcium stores and their relationship to other cellular structures is not clear. In addition, the interaction of IP3 with its receptor on these Ca2+ stores often results in complex kinetics of Ca2+ release and reaccumulation, resulting in the appearance of regenerative cytoplasmic intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) oscillations. One aim of research in this laboratory is to better identify and localize the intracellular Ca2+ pools involved in cellular signaling, and to understand better the basis for intracellular [Ca2+]i oscillations.

Research Interest

Identification and localization of the intracellular Ca2+ pools involved in cellular signaling. Improving understanding of the basis of intracellular [Ca2+]i oscillations. The nature of the calcium channel, and the signal generated by depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores.