RESEARCH: CANCER
FOLDING PROJECT #12011 PROFILE

This project explores how Class A GPCRs work. These proteins act like cellular messengers, controlling many bodily functions. Understanding them helps develop new drugs for diseases like cancer, diabetes, and depression.

Class A GPCRs: Class A GPCRs are pivotal drug targets in our body, as they are involved in regulating almost all homeostatic processes in the human body.

It is estimated that around 35% of all drugs currently approved by the FDA target one of these GPCRs.

These proteins act like 'molecular telephones' and transmit signals from outside the cell to inside the cell.

Here, we aim to study the process that underlies their action on our body.

This is integral for providing insights into the protein's function and design better and new drugs targeting cancer, diabetes, depression and anxiety.

GPCRs

G protein-coupled receptors

GPCRs are a large family of proteins that play a crucial role in cell signaling. They are found on the surface of cells and bind to various molecules, such as hormones and neurotransmitters. This binding triggers a cascade of events inside the cell, leading to changes in its behavior. Because of their importance in regulating many bodily functions, GPCRs are a major target for drug development.

FDA

Food and Drug Administration

The FDA is a federal agency responsible for protecting public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, medical devices, our nation's food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation.

Cancer

A group of diseases characterized by abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body.

Cancer is a broad term for a group of diseases that involve uncontrolled cell growth. This abnormal growth can occur in any part of the body and can spread to other tissues. Cancer is caused by various factors, including genetic mutations, environmental exposures, and lifestyle choices.

Diabetes

A chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels.

Diabetes is a condition where the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can't effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Without enough insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to various health complications.

Depression

A mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest.

Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and behave. It can cause persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep and appetite, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide.

Anxiety

A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease.

Anxiety is a common human experience characterized by feelings of worry, apprehension, and fear. These feelings can be mild or intense and may manifest as physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, and trembling. Anxiety disorders involve persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily life.