Articles tagged with Cell Surface Receptors
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) biologists have found direct evidence for the function of a key protein involved in cells' uptake of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. The discovery could lead to new treatments for atherosclerosis, a leading cause of death in Western industrialized countries.
Kenneth Bernstein has made significant contributions to understanding the renin-angiotensin system, a key regulator of blood pressure. His work has transformed the field, revealing new insights into the biology of angiotensin II and its effects on cardiovascular function.
Researchers discovered a protein sensitive to chemical stimuli and tissue-damaging levels of heat, identifying capsaicin as the key player. The cloned gene enables large-scale production of the protein, paving the way for potential pain-controlling drugs.
Researchers have discovered how a rare epilepsy mutation works at a molecular level, potentially helping understand other nervous-system disorders. The mutation impairs signaling between nerve cells, leading to seizures in people with autosomal dominant nocturnal frontal lobe epilepsy (ADNFLE).
Scientists have discovered a crucial region on nerve cells that may be essential for the actions of inhaled anesthetics, potentially leading to safer, more potent pain medications. The finding also provides insight into the genetics of alcohol addiction and may help develop new treatments.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute have found a biological switch that drives the growth of lung cells in ex-smokers, leading to an increased risk of lung cancer. The 'switch' is triggered by gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) receptors, which capture circulating hormones and spur lung cell division.
Scientists pinpoint exact spot where snake venom latches onto receptor, paving way for synthetic antidote. The new treatment could be more effective and faster-acting than current method, eliminating risk of allergy.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University found that adenosine triphosphate (ATP) stimulates pain-sensing nerves by binding to a receptor called P2X3 on nerve cell membranes. This discovery may pave the way for the design of new pain-relieving drugs.
Researchers found increased enzyme activity in Alzheimer's patients, suggesting a potential factor in disease development. A peptide inhibiting ACTH synthesis and secretion was also identified as a regulator of the body's adaptive response to stress.
A Northwestern University study reveals a biochemical connection between alcoholism and nicotine addiction, suggesting that low concentrations of alcohol may interact with the neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. The researchers propose that this interaction may contribute to the high correlation between alcoholism and smoking.
Research reveals that protein folding defects in the LDL receptor contribute to familial hypercholesterolemia by affecting calcium binding. This finding offers new hope for developing targeted therapies to enable proper protein folding and lower blood cholesterol levels.