Zaki Alsahafi
MS
DPhil Student
Our current research focuses upon peripheral chemoreception. We investigate the role of
various ion channels in the process of chemoreception, in particular, twink-related acid-sensitive K+ channels (TASK channels). We also examine the effect of different pharmacological agents such as respiratory stimulants, and anesthetics on chemoreception sensitivity. Moreover, we will investigate oxygen sensitivity in other cell types expressing channels that are oxygen-sensitive in the type-1 cells of the carotid bodies. E.g. TASK channels in adrenal chromaffin cells and zona glomerulosa cells.