Abstract
• Neurotransmitter receptor proteins can be divided into GPCRs and ligand-gated ion channels. Members within each family utilize a similar signalling mechanism and are structurally related. • Multiple receptor subtypes are expressed for individual neurotransmitters, generating orders of complexity that have been exploited for therapeutic intervention. • GPCRs have been cloned and extensively studied by using a range of molecular biological strategies, particularly recombinant expression systems. These have located functional domains for ligand binding and G-protein coupling. • A combination of molecular biology and computer modelling has increased our understanding of receptor activation and will aid drug design.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 15-27 |
Number of pages | 13 |
Journal | Essays in Biochemistry |
Volume | 33 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Jan 1998 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology