Understanding the 3D shapes of cell-surface receptors (GPCRs)
Structural Biology Of G Protein-Coupled Receptors
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-11320803
Researchers are mapping detailed 3D shapes of important cell-surface receptors to help design safer, more effective drugs for conditions like cancer and heart disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11320803 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team uses advanced laboratory methods and computer modeling to determine high-resolution three-dimensional structures of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). They are developing faster, more reliable techniques for structure determination and applying biochemical and biophysical tests to see how signals and drug-like molecules bind. Several specific receptors linked to cancer and cardiovascular disease will be studied to understand how ligand specificity and signaling work at the molecular level. Structural data will be combined with functional experiments to guide the design of more selective drug candidates.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with cancers or cardiovascular conditions who are interested in contributing samples or joining future trials of GPCR-targeted therapies would be the most relevant group.
Not a fit: People without conditions tied to GPCR-targeted treatments or those needing immediate clinical care are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could enable design of more selective, potent medicines with fewer side effects for cancer and heart disease patients.
How similar studies have performed: High-resolution GPCR structures have been obtained before and have informed drug development, but many receptors and complexes remain difficult to capture and need improved methods.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — Los Angeles, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHEREZOV, VADIM — UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
- Study coordinator: CHEREZOV, VADIM
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.
Conditions: Cancers, Cardiovascular Diseases