Dr. Alvin Shrier

Biography

Alvin Shrier is a Professor in the Department of Physiology at McGill University. His research focuses on Cardiovascular Physiology, specifically the role of ion channels and membrane transporters in the initiation and conduction of cardiac impulses. His work addresses how genetic mutations and pharmaceutical interventions can alter the function of these membrane proteins, leading to abnormal cardiac rhythms. In the laboratory, Professor Shrier employs a variety of molecular methods and techniques, including yeast two-hybrid screens and confocal microscopy, to investigate protein interactions and localization. He applies electrophysiological methods such as patch clamp techniques to evaluate the functional expression and biophysical properties of ion channels in isolated cardiac myocytes. Additionally, he utilizes optical dyes and cooled CCD camera systems to image the conduction of cardiac impulses in cultured cardiac myocytes and tissues, analyzing rhythms through nonlinear mathematical modeling. His extensive experience in the field makes him a prominent figure in understanding the genesis of cardiac rhythms and the changes that occur during cardiac development, arrhythmias, and ischemic conditions.

Research Interests

Experience