Dr. Henry Colecraft

Biography

Henry M. Colecraft is the John C. Dalton Professor of Physiology and a Professor of Pharmacology at Columbia University. His research focuses on molecular physiology, particularly voltage-dependent calcium channels and their role in electrically active cells, such as heart muscle and nerve cells. Dr. Colecraft's work aims to understand the structure-function mechanisms of calcium channels and their beta subunits, which are crucial for normal functioning and the pathology of conditions such as epilepsy and cardiac dysfunction. He employs diverse methodologies including whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiology and bioinformatics to unravel how these channels contribute to vital biological processes and their modulation by therapeutics. His laboratory develops novel genetically-encoded calcium channel blockers to address gaps in the pharmacological toolkit available for treating serious neurological and cardiovascular conditions. Dr. Colecraft's aim is to bridge fundamental insights into calcium dynamics at the cellular level with potential therapies for serious conditions, enhancing our understanding of heart and neuronal signaling.

Research Interests