Series of the Centro de Estudios Científicos: Pumps, Transporters, and Ion Channels

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This compilation of articles features talks from the Centro de Estudios Cientificos (CECS) in Valdivia, celebrating the 60th birthdays of Ramon Latorre and Enrico Stefani. Ramon Latorre, a prominent figure in channel Biophysics, initially trained as a Biochemist but transitioned to biophysics under the mentorship of Guayo (Eduardo) Rojas during his Ph.D. at the Laboratorio de Fisiologia Celular in Montemar. His influential work at the N.I.H. with Gerald Ehrenstein and Harold Lecar marked a significant milestone in single ion channel Biophysics. This foundational research, conducted in planar bilayers, laid the groundwork for understanding voltage-dependent conductances through single channel studies, predating the later patch clamping techniques. Latorre was among the first to identify the significance of calcium-activated potassium channels and to investigate their properties in detail. He advanced the understanding of voltage and calcium modulation of open probability and conducted thorough studies on gating and its modulation by other ions. Additionally, he explored permeation and selectivity, producing seminal studies on water molecules within channels and barium occupancy. His findings have gained renewed attention with the recent description of the KcSa structure.