It was a completely coincident for me to do a research project in P2X receptor. When I completed my lecture-based modules of the Master course in Molecular Genetics, I had little prior lab experience and no knowledge to the purinergic receptors at all. At that time, I was despaired for a project while Richard’s research proposal was left unattended in the mailbox of my course convenor. However, being a project student in Richard’s lab turned out to be an amazing turning point in my life and became the beginning of my PhD study in Pharmacology. This invaluable lab and thesis writing practices enabled me to be confident with all kinds of trouble-shooting in research and daily life, and discovered my potential as an independent researcher. It also allowed me a memorable and pleasurable working experience with such kind scientists. I would express my gratitude to all the supports I received from following people; I can never finish this thesis without their generous help.

First of all, I would like to thank my supervisor Prof. Richard Evans, who was always encouraging and inspiring me throughout these years. Thank Richard for his super logical writing techniques and smart presentation skills, the well-planned working schedule, “thinking-before-doing” methodology as well as the mysterious electrophysiological techniques those not only emphasized my capability but also the confidence to future career.

Special thanks go to Dr. Catherine Vial, for all of the molecular biological techniques and all kinds of supports since my first day in laboratory, for the diligent working attitude, for her care and consideration to my personal life, for her encouragement and also the enjoyable sharing in manga and French learning.

I would deeply thank Dr. Jonathan Roberts for always being patience, clearance and effective in all kinds of technical and non-technical problem solving.

Thank Dr. Ulya Lalo for her sense of humor and the hands in cell culture and patch clamp recording.

Thank Dr. Rebecca Allsopp for her kindness and creating a pleasant lab atmosphere.

Thank Ms Amelia Atterbury-Thomas and Miss Marie Valente for making everything convenient and organized.

And everyone else for enjoying me from details.

Finally, I am indebted to my parents too much, and therefore devote this thesis to them for everything.

Tags: PhD, 研究