Danish cell biologists to have unique research result on the front page of the world’s most recognised scientific journal Nature.

A group of Danish cell biologists with professor Poul Nissen in charge and connected with the basic research centre PUMPKIN at the Molecular Biology Faculty at the University of Aarhus has succeeded in hitting the front page of the world’s most prestigious scientific journal Nature, writes Berlingske Tidende.

As the first researchers in the world they have succeeded in disclosing how the cells’ so-called ion pumps look and function. Ion pumps preserve essential differences in the cells’ internal and external environment and ensure energy to all signal and transport processes in the body – e.g. nerve impuls and the kidneys’ salt secrete. In plants and mushrooms they are moreover the basis for absorption of nutrients. The results may among other things be used for the development of new types of drugs and technology.

Already today a number of drugs have an effect on the pumps as for example heart medicine and ulcer medicine. However, the new results may be used for the development of new types of medicine for the treatment of cardiovascular disease, cancer and infectious diseases. Moreover, they can be the basis for development of new nanotechnology and of culture plants with large salt tolerance.

The research breakthrough builds on the discovery of the first ion pump – an important breakthrough which took place back in 1957 by the Danish scientist Jens Chr. Skou who received the Nobel Price in 1997 for his unique discovery.

“In 1957 it was a dream that I could not imagine would become a reality. There is every reason to congratulate Poul Nissen and his collaboration partners. I am very pleased that what I started 50 years ago has been followed up,” says the Nobel Price winner in a statement.