Advanced Pharmacology of G-Protein Coupled Receptors

Catalog description

G protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) are a superfamily of cell surface receptors of which it has been estimated that ~40% of the drugs currently on the market target. In this course, we will be studying the function of these receptors, expanding on that which was previously taught reviewing concepts of drug binding, signal initiation, through the activation of G proteins and termination through receptor desensitization and internalization. In addition, we will explore new signaling pathways associated with these receptors, in particular through interplay with various receptor systems, ion channels and beta arrestin. We will also explore new concepts of its function, looking at receptor oligomerization and structure- function analysis. Furthermore, we will explore the drug development workflow towards these receptors, in particular learning the theory behind various experimental techniques and model organisms that are utilized within. Finally, we will explore the roles of these receptors within various diseases and drugs associated with them. Students will learn how to present data associated with G protein coupled receptors and learn how to design studies towards the development of GPCR drug discovery and research programs. 2 credit hours, didactic