Real-Time Imaging of ATP Release in Rat Ex Vivo Lung

The goal of my research is to study the effect of stretch on the release of the energy-carrying molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the lung. In response to physical forces, cells release ATP as a signaling molecule to regulate various pulmonary functions, such as the secretion of surfactant, which helps us to breathe. However, little is known about how ATP is released out of the cell. Therefore, I aim to investigate the mechanism of stretch-induced ATP release in an intact rat lung model. For this purpose, I will use advanced imagery techniques to record ATP release in real time. First, I will characterize these responses induced by lung inflation. Second, I will identify the release pathway of ATP by using a pharmacological approach. TO BE CONT’D

Faculty Supervisor:

Ryszard Grygorczyk

Student:

Partner:

Nagoya University (Graduate School of Medicine)

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

University:

Université de Montréal

Program:

Globalink Research Award