RESEARCH: DIABETES
FOLDING PROJECT #14925 PROFILE

This project studies how special proteins called GPCRs change shape when they're activated. These GPCRs are involved in diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. By understanding how they work, scientists can design better medications to treat these conditions.

Note: This TLDR is a simplication and may not be 100% accurate.

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.

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G-Protein Coupled Receptors

GPCRs: Cell surface receptors that bind to signaling molecules.

G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) are a large family of proteins found on the surface of cells. They act as sensors, binding to various signaling molecules like hormones and neurotransmitters. This binding triggers a cascade of events inside the cell, leading to changes in its activity. GPCRs play crucial roles in many physiological processes, including vision, smell, taste, and immune response. They are also important targets for drug development, as many medications work by modulating GPCR activity.

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GPCRs

G-Protein Coupled Receptors

See G-Protein Coupled Receptors.

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Glucagon Receptor

A protein that binds to glucagon, regulating blood sugar levels.

The Glucagon Receptor is a protein found on the surface of liver cells. It binds to the hormone glucagon, which is released by the pancreas when blood sugar levels are low. This binding triggers a series of events in the liver, leading to the release of stored glucose into the bloodstream. This helps to raise blood sugar levels back to normal.

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Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Receptor

A receptor that binds to GLP-1, stimulating insulin release.

The Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Receptor (GLP-1R) is a protein found on the surface of pancreatic beta cells. It binds to the hormone GLP-1, which is released by the intestines after meals. This binding stimulates the beta cells to release insulin, helping to lower blood sugar levels.

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PArathyroid Hormone Receptor

A receptor that binds to parathyroid hormone, regulating calcium levels.

The Parathyroid Hormone Receptor (PTH1R) is a protein found on various tissues, including bone and kidney. It binds to the hormone parathyroid hormone (PTH), which is released by the parathyroid glands when blood calcium levels are low. This binding triggers several effects, including increased calcium release from bones, decreased calcium excretion by kidneys, and activation of vitamin D production.

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Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Receptor

A receptor activated by hormones like TSH and FSH.

The Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Receptor (PACR) is a protein found on the surface of cells in the pituitary gland. It binds to several hormones, including thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). This binding activates a signaling pathway that leads to the production of various other hormones, regulating processes like growth, development, metabolism, and reproduction.

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Secretin Receptor

A receptor that binds to secretin, stimulating pancreatic enzyme release.

The Secretin Receptor is a protein found on the surface of cells in the pancreas. It binds to the hormone secretin, which is released by the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) after meals. This binding stimulates the pancreas to release digestive enzymes into the small intestine, helping break down food.