Development of a new high throughput screen for drug binding to hERG K+ channels [ 2010 - 2012 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Jamie Vandenberg (Principal investigator) ,  Dr Mark Treherne

Brief description Inadvertent drug block of hERG, a potassium channel in the heart, can cause cardiac arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Screening for hERG toxicity has become a major hurdle for development of new drugs. We will use a mutant hERG protein that has enhanced drug binding to develop a high throughput test for hERG toxicity. Identification of dangerous drugs early in the drug discovery process will save the pharmaceutical industry millions of dollars in the costs of brining new drugs to market.

Funding Amount $AUD 351,320.75

Funding Scheme NHMRC Development Grants

Notes Development Grant