Overview

Huizinga’s laboratory is interested in gut pacemaker network properties. Motor patterns of the gut are orchestrated by pacemaker cells, interstitial cells of Cajal, in conjunction with intrinsic and extrinsic nerves. We explore pacemaker cells via electrophysiology (patch clamping, sharp electrodes), we explore structure function relationships, we explore whole organ function through spatio-temporal mapping via video recording of motor patterns. We have a strong emphasis on mathematical modeling of the gut pacemakers as a system of weakly coupled oscillators. All this is to enhance our understanding of human colonic motility, which we explore in patients and volunteers through High Resolution Colonic Manometry.

We have space for graduate students who are interested in mathematical modeling and/or electrophysiology.