Warsaw, Poland – October, 2024 – We are proud to announce the 25th anniversary of Intracellular Ion Channels Laboratory (1999-2024). Over the past quarter-century, the laboratory has been at the forefront of research, significantly advancing our understanding of intracellular ion channel function, particularly mitochondrial potassium channels, and their implications in cellular physiology and pharmacology.
Milestones and Achievements
Since its founding in 1999, the Intracellular Ion Channels Laboratory has published nearly 140 publications on mitochondria and intracellular ion channels, with a focus on mitochondrial potassium channels. Some of the most important discoveries include:
- Characteristics of the interactions of potassium channel activators with mitochondria: This research has deepened our understanding of how potassium channels openers regulate and interact with cellular components.
- Identification of the interactions of the respiratory chain with the potassium channel: This work has revealed critical insights into how mitochondrial function is influenced by potassium channels.
- New mechanisms of regulation of the mitochondrial potassium channel: Including regulation by infrared light, flavonoids, gases and other agents, these findings have opened new avenues for potential therapeutic interventions.
The laboratory has also achieved significant organizational milestones:
- Co-organization of bioenergetic sessions at national meetings of the Polish Biochemical Society and Federation of European Biochemical Societies (FEBS) congresses.
- Initiation of MITOCHONDRION meetings, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange within the scientific community.
- Patent with Dr. Irena Eris company, demonstrating the laboratory’s commitment to innovation and practical applications of their research.
- 10 products from Dr. Irena Eris company on the market, showcasing the direct impact of the laboratory’s research on commercial products.
- Co-organization of the EBEC conference in 2010, a significant event that brought together experts in the field.
- Initiation of Special Issues of FEBS Letters and MITOCHONDRION, contributing to the dissemination of cutting-edge research.
Celebratory Events
To mark this significant milestone, recently we published review paper at Acta Biochimica Polonica In this article, we present an overview of the key findings and characteristics of mitochondrial potassium channels derived from research of many groups conducted over the past 33 years. We propose a list of six fundamental observations and most important ideas dealing with mitochondrial potassium channels. We also discuss the contemporary challenges and future prospects associated with research on mitochondrial potassium channels.
Szewczyk A. Understanding mitochondrial potassium channels: 33 years after discovery. Acta Biochim Pol. 2024 May 28; 71:1 3126.
doi: 10.3389/abp.2024.13126.
Acknowledgments
The success of the Intracellular Ion Channels Laboratory has been made possible through the collaboration and support of many esteemed colleagues and partners. Special thanks to:
Bartek Augustynek, Piotr Bednarczyk (47 joint publications), Renata Bilewicz, Aleksandra Buta, Stefan Chlopicki, Grażyna Dębska, Krzysztof Dołowy, Wiesława Jarmuszkiewicz, Daniel Gryko, Renata Hordejuk, Barbara Kalenik, Justyna Kalisz, Ola Kajma, Rafał Kampa, Anna Kicińska, Robert Lukowski, Izabela Koszela-Piotrowska, Milena Krajewska, Paweł Krysiński, Shur Kucman, Bogusz Kulawiak, Piotr Koprowski, Wolfram Kunz (4 joint grants), Michał Laskowski, Joanna Lewandowska, Agnieszka Lukasiak, Grażyna Mosieniak, Karol Ondriaš, Marta Piwońska, Brian O’Rourke, Daria Rotko, Aleksandra Sęk, Detlef Siemen, Harpreet Singh, Jolanta Skalska, Krzysztof Skowronek, Aleksandra Stefanowska, Agnieszka Walewska, Antoni Wrzosek, Monika Żochowska.
Quotes
Prof. Adam Szewczyk, current Head of the Laboratory, added, “As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect on our past achievements with pride and look forward to the future with excitement. Our commitment to scientific innovation and collaboration remains as strong as ever.”
Looking Ahead
The Intracellular Ion Channels Laboratory remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery. With ongoing research projects and new initiatives on the horizon, the laboratory is poised to continue its legacy of excellence for many years to come.
For more information about the Intracellular Ion Channels Laboratory and the upcoming anniversary events, please visit https://infraredmito.nencki.edu.pl or FB, X Lab services.
