An interview with Arthur M. "Buzz" Brown, M.D., Ph.D. by Vicki Glaser

Area of Science:

• Physiology and Biophysics
• Pharmacology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Pioneering research in ion channel structure-function relationships spanning over three decades.
• Established leading ion channel research departments at multiple major universities.
• Extensive experience in ion channel drug discovery and safety services at ChanTest Corporation.

Discussion:

• Applied novel techniques like liquid ion exchanger microelectrodes to single-cell analysis.
• Elucidated the membrane-delimited action of G proteins on ion channels.
• Identified ion channel pore structures for voltage-gated and potassium channels.

Key Insights:

• Determined the human ether-à-go-go-related gene (hERG) potassium channel as a target for drug-induced arrhythmias.
• Demonstrated that noncardiac drugs can cause lethal arrhythmias by disrupting ion channel trafficking.
• Holds eight patents related to ion channel methodology and therapeutic applications.

Outlook:

• Continued advancements in understanding ion channel mechanisms for therapeutic interventions.
• Potential for novel drug discovery and safety profiling based on ion channel interactions.
• Further exploration of ion channel pharmacology for treating cardiac and non-cardiac conditions.