Cortisol is believed to rapidly modulate nerve activity, an effect likely to be of profound importance to the central nervous system’s response to stress. There is evidence to suggest that some of this effect may be due to direct modulation of potassium ion channels. This in vitro study will investigate whether steroids directly modulate potassium ion channels expressed in cell lines. Recombinant potassium channels will be tested for sensitivity to both cortisol and other steroid compounds. The data will be expressed in the context of a simple model action potential.

Techniques:

1. Cell Culture (maintenance of cell lines under aseptic conditions).
2. Whole-cell patch clamp recording and analysis.