RESEARCH: DIABETES
FOLDING PROJECT #14918 PROFILE

This project relates to studying how five specific types of cell receptors change shape when activated. These receptors are involved in health problems like diabetes and high blood pressure. Understanding their movement can help scientists create better medications.

G-Protein Coupled Receptors: G-Protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are membrane proteins involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, etc.

Here, we are trying to study the conformational dynamics of the Glucagon Receptor, Glucagon-like Peptide 1 receptor, PArathyroid Hormone Receptor, Pituitary Adenlyate Cyclase Receptor and Secretin Receptor - All Class B GPCRs.

These studies will help in designing better drugs that target these receptors.

G-Protein Coupled Receptors

Cell surface receptors that activate intracellular signaling pathways.

G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) are a large family of proteins found on the surface of cells. They play a crucial role in transmitting signals from outside the cell to inside, influencing various bodily functions like vision, smell, and hormone regulation. Many drugs target GPCRs to treat diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and pain.

Glucagon Receptor

A type of GPCR that binds to the hormone glucagon.

The Glucagon Receptor is a protein on the surface of liver cells. When glucagon binds to this receptor, it signals the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream, raising blood sugar levels. This process is essential for regulating blood sugar and providing energy to the body.

Glucagon-like Peptide 1 receptor

A type of GPCR that binds to the hormone GLP-1.

The Glucagon-like Peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) is a protein found on cells in the pancreas and other organs. When GLP-1 binds to this receptor, it stimulates insulin release from the pancreas, lowers blood sugar levels, and slows down gastric emptying. This makes GLP-1R a target for medications used to treat type 2 diabetes.

PArathyroid Hormone Receptor

A type of GPCR that binds to the hormone parathyroid hormone (PTH).

The Parathyroid Hormone Receptor (PTHrR) is a protein found on various cells throughout the body. When PTH binds to this receptor, it stimulates calcium release from bones, increases calcium absorption in the intestines, and promotes reabsorption of calcium in the kidneys. This helps regulate calcium levels in the blood, which are essential for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling.

Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Receptor

A type of GPCR that activates adenylate cyclase.

The Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Receptor (PACR) is a protein found on cells in the pituitary gland. When activated by hormones like Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH), it triggers the production of cyclic AMP (cAMP), which acts as a messenger molecule to regulate various cellular processes. This receptor plays a crucial role in controlling hormone release from the pituitary gland, affecting reproductive function, growth, and metabolism.

Secretin Receptor

A type of GPCR that binds to the hormone secretin.

The Secretin Receptor is a protein found on cells in the pancreas and other organs. When secretin binds to this receptor, it stimulates bicarbonate secretion from the pancreas, which neutralizes stomach acid entering the duodenum. This helps protect the intestinal lining and facilitate digestion.