The G-Protein Coupled Receptors Program encompasses studies on the G-protein coupled receptor superfamily. Specific areas of support include (1) cell surface, or seven transmembrane domain (7-TM), receptors coupled to GTP-binding ("G")-proteins for signal transduction (e.g. beta-adrenergic receptor); (2) receptor structure; (3) receptor down-regulation (homologous desensitization); (4) role(s) of mutated receptors in disease; and (5) coupling of signaling through the receptor to other membrane-bound effectors or regulators, such as adenylyl cyclase, ion channels, protein phosphatases or kinases, and other receptors. Signal transduction through GPCRs also includes mechanisms of regulation of gene expression through nuclear proteins such as the Cyclic Nucleotide Response Element Binding Protein (CREB) and the CREB binding protein (CBP).
For more information, contact Dr. Teresa Jones, Diabetes Complications Program Director.
