Investigating the importance of KCC2 phosphorylation in regulating Chloride extrusion

The protein, potassium-chloride cotransporter (KCC2) is found in neurons and ensures that specialized chemical channels in brain cells will be activated. This activation is important for allowing the brian to function properly since neuropathic pain and specific forms of epilepsy can occur if the transporter is deficient. Despite its importance there are many aspects about the function and control of the transporter that we do not know. This project will examine the hypothesis that phosphorylation, a form of protein modification, can regulate the function of KCC2. The experiments will introduce mutated versions of KCC2 in cells and use a specialized microscope to probe living cells. Our results will determine whether phosphorylation may be a means to enhance or diminish KCC2 function with implications for treating pain and epilepsy.