Structural Biology of Membrane Proteins
Class A G protein-coupled receptor (GPCRs) transduce extracellular signals across the cell membrane by activating cytoplasmic-bound heterotrimeric GTP binding proteins (G proteins), which, in turn, modulate the activity of downstream effector proteins. Despite the physiological and pharmacological relevance of GPCRs, the structural basis of ligand efficacy and receptor activation, and how these elements translate into cytoplasmic trafficking and cellular response still remain elusive. We integrate data from structural biology, molecular biology, cellular biology and structural bioinformatics to study the molecular basis of GPCR function. In addition, we compare the profile of activated signaling molecules with their dynamic intracellular localization pattern to learn how receptor activation translates into specific pathways of cellular signaling. Our overreaching goal is to link receptor structure, cellular biological data and pharmacological results to physiological function.
Gebhard Schertler, Group leader
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs)
Valerie Panneels, Scientist
Rhodopsin dynamics and retina tissue imaging
Ching-Ju Tsai, Scientist
Signalling through membrane proteins
Xavier Deupi, Scientist
Molecular basis of activation in G protein-coupled receptors
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