How fats in cell membranes affect the A2A receptor
Lipid dependent GPCR signaling: Thermodynamics and mechanisms
Researchers will look at how membrane fats (lipids) change the A2A receptor’s activity to help people with conditions linked to this receptor.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Delaware NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11345422 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project studies the A2A adenosine receptor, a cell-surface protein that helps send signals in the body, and how nearby membrane fats (lipids) change its shape and activity. Scientists will use controlled membrane models, thermodynamic measurements, and structural tools to see which lipids favor active or inactive receptor states. They will compare results from simple lab membranes with more complex, physiological membrane environments. The work aims to produce quantitative maps of lipid effects that could guide drug design and understanding of diseases tied to this receptor.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This is lab-based research that does not enroll patients, but it is most relevant to people with conditions involving A2A receptor signaling, such as Parkinson’s disease, some inflammatory disorders, or certain cardiovascular conditions.
Not a fit: People without conditions related to A2A receptor function or those seeking immediate treatment changes are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help design better drugs targeting the A2A receptor and improve treatments for related conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous structural and biochemical studies show lipids influence GPCRs, but quantitatively mapping thermodynamics of lipid effects on the A2A receptor is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- University of Delaware — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lyman, Edward Ray — University of Delaware
- Study coordinator: Lyman, Edward Ray
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.