I am currently working on a DiabetesUK grant to investigate the role of palmitoylation of BK channels and their accessory β-subunits within β-cells of the pancreas. The primary function of these cells is to release the hormone insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. It may be predicted that by influencing the electrical excitability of the β-cells that the BK channel is linked to the control of glucose stimulated insulin secretion.

Cell surface expression and activity of the channel is directly influenced by palmitoylation, either of itself or potentially by the palmitoylation of the accessory β-subunits. The project aims to discover if BK channel and β-subunit palmitoylation modulate the function of β-cells.