Taleh Yusifov, PhD in Biology, Leading Researcher at the Laboratory of Cell Biochemistry and Signal Transduction of the Institute of Molecular Biology of the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan, conducted research at the University of Utah in the United States from April 27 to July 27, 2026.

During his visit, the scientist investigated the role of human BK channels, particularly mitochondrial BK channels, in the production of reactive oxygen species and the maintenance of redox homeostasis. Studies conducted in human cells showed that BK channels possess cytochrome c-like enzymatic properties and are involved in the detoxification of hydrogen peroxide. It was also demonstrated that high expression of BK channels can protect cells from oxidative stress and cell death induced by H₂O₂.

The findings indicate that BK channels may be involved in a novel mechanism protecting cells against oxidative stress and open new perspectives for further investigation of their cytoprotective properties.