RESEARCH: DIABETES
FOLDING PROJECT #14926 PROFILE

This project looks at how certain receptors in our bodies change shape when they're activated. These receptors are involved in things like blood pressure and diabetes. Understanding how they work will help scientists design new drugs that target these receptors more effectively.

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

GPCRs: Membrane proteins involved in cell signaling.

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 hormone regulation, vision, and taste. Many drugs target GPCRs to treat diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, and pain.

Glucagon Receptor

A receptor protein that binds to glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels.

The Glucagon Receptor is a protein found on the surface of liver cells. When it binds to the hormone glucagon, it triggers the release of glucose (sugar) into the bloodstream, helping to raise blood sugar levels when they are too low.

Glucagon-like Peptide 1 receptor

GLP-1R: Receptor activated by the hormone GLP-1.

The Glucagon-like Peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) is a protein found on various cells in the body, including those in the pancreas and brain. When it binds to the hormone GLP-1, it stimulates insulin release, suppresses glucagon secretion, and slows gastric emptying, ultimately helping regulate blood sugar levels.

Parathyroid Hormone Receptor

A receptor protein that binds to parathyroid hormone.

The Parathyroid Hormone Receptor is a protein found on various cells in the body. When it binds to parathyroid hormone (PTH), it triggers processes like increased calcium absorption and release from bone, helping regulate blood calcium levels.

Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide

PACAP: A neuropeptide that activates adenylyl cyclase.

Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide involved in various physiological processes, including stress response, neurotransmission, and hormone regulation. It acts by activating the enzyme adenylate cyclase, which produces cyclic AMP (cAMP), a key signaling molecule.

Secretin Receptor

A receptor protein that binds to the hormone secretin.

The Secretin Receptor is a protein found on cells lining the pancreas and duodenum. When it binds to the hormone secretin, it stimulates the release of bicarbonate from the pancreas, which helps neutralize acidic chyme (partially digested food) entering the small intestine.