Abstract: Isolated DNA encoding each of human calcium channel ?1-, ?2-, ?- and ?-subunits, including subunits that arise as splice variants of primary transcripts, is provided. Cells and vectors containing the DNA and methods for identifying compounds that modulate the activity of human calcium channels are also provided.

Abstract: DNA encoding human neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor alpha and beta subunits, mammalian and amphibian cells containing said DNA, methods for producing alpha and beta subunits and recombinant (i.e., isolated or substantially pure) alpha subunits (specifically ?6) and beta subunits (specifically ?3) are provided. In addition, combinations of a plurality of subunits (i.e., one or more of ?1, ?2, ?3, ?4, ?5, ?6 and/or ?7 subunits in combination with one or more of ?3 subunits are provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides a new device for use in measuring lead levels in biological and environmental samples. Using square wave coulometry and colloidal gold particles impregnated on carbon electrodes, the present invention provides a rapid, reliable, portable and inexpensive means of detecting low lead levels. The colloidal gold modified electrodes have microelectrode array characteristics and produce significantly higher stripping detection signals for lead than are produced at bulk gold electrode surfaces. The method is effective in determining levels of lead down to at least 5 .mu.g/dL in blood samples as small as 10 .mu.L.