# Sodium channel control of neuronal excitability

> **NIH NIH R01** · OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY · 2021 · $205,627

## Abstract

Voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) are essential for action potential generation. Furthermore, drugs that
directly target VGSCs are widely used to treat common diseases, such as pain, mood disorders, muscle
spasms, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias. However, side effects arise because of the widespread distribution
of VGSCs and cross-sensitivity of the various VGSC subtypes to blockers. In addition, these drugs are not
completely effective, underlining a substantial need for new drugs that target VGSCs. This has motivated us to
identify and characterize new mechanisms by which VGSC function can be regulated. Regulation of voltage-
gated ion channel function is an important pathway by which neuronal signaling and brain function is regulated,
and G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) form a major element of the endogenous transduction mechanisms
by which this occurs. However, unlike other ion channels, VGSCs have been assumed to be relatively
insensitive to modulation by GPCR signaling. We have recently identified a pathway that is modulated by
agents known to interact with the CaSR (calcium-sensing receptor). This pathway is widespread, present in the
vast majority of neocortical neurons, and strong enough to completely and reversibly block VGSC currents
when maximally stimulated. This novel, dynamic signaling pathway is positioned to substantially modulate
neuronal excitability and brain function. Detailed knowledge about the underlying mechanisms is crucial to
understand its many effects. The objectives of this proposal are to determine how CaSR modulators regulate
VGSCs. Using a combination of electrophysiology and unbiased biochemical approaches we will identify the
receptors mediating the inhibition of VGSC currents, measure the relative sensitivity to block of different VGSC
isoforms, and determine if the pathway differentially regulates action potentials at nerve terminals and soma.
These specific aims will test the hypothesis that CaSR modulators actions via VGSCs represent important new
pathways for modulating neuronal excitability. We are ideally suited to perform this project because of our
preliminary data and expertise. Our rationale is that the identification and characterization of a novel and
prevalent receptor(s) and downstream pathway will facilitate our understanding of a prevalent and potentially
powerful neurobiological signaling pathway. Successful completion of these specific aims will characterize new
drug targets and eventually will lead to new therapeutics to improve control of pain, seizures, muscle spasm,
and arrhythmias.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10153825
- **Project number:** 5R01GM134110-02
- **Recipient organization:** OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Stephen M Smith
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $205,627
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2020-05-01 → 2023-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10153825

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10153825, Sodium channel control of neuronal excitability (5R01GM134110-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10153825. Licensed CC0.

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