Dr. Shetuan Zhang

Biography

Shetuan Zhang is a Professor at Queen's University in the School of Medicine specializing in Biomedical Molecular Sciences. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of ion channel function and cardiac arrhythmias. Specifically, he studies voltage-gated potassium channels encoded by the human Ether-a-go-go-Related Gene (hERG), which is critical for cardiac repolarization. Mutations in hERG can be caused by common medications, leading to Long QT Syndrome (LQTS), a dangerous cardiac electrical disorder. Dr. Zhang employs molecular biology and electrophysiology techniques using cell lines and animal models to investigate hERG function under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. His significant findings include the requirement of extracellular potassium for hERG activity and expression, with ongoing projects exploring drug interactions and the regulation of hERG expression levels. His research also aims to provide foundational insights into the pathogenesis of cardiac arrhythmias and innovate anti-arrhythmic therapies. Zhang has published extensively on the regulation, characterization, and interaction mechanisms of various ion channels, particularly focusing on hERG.

Research Interests