Glutamate transporters are responsible for the uptake of the neurotransmitter glutamate from the synaptic cleft into glial cells in a process driven by the energy of ionic gradients. Extensive studies on a bacterial homologue GltPh have shown that these transporters operate by a so-called elevator mechanism, where a distinct “transport” domain moves the substrate and coupled ions across the membrane. The dynamics of this process, as well as that of substrate and ion binding and release, determine the rate at which the transporter operates. We aim to understand the nature of the energetic barriers that determine the dynamics and function of these transporters.

The Krimm lectureship was endowed by the Krimm family, and named after Professor Emeritus of Biophysics, Samuel Krimm. We thank Dr. Krimm for his many contributions and years of service to the University and the Biophysics Department.