Injury and inflammation trigger activation of proteases from the circulation, immune cells, and epithelial tissues. Many of these processes are regulated by G-Protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) which are a major target of therapeutics. Most GPCRs are active by a ligand that is released into the extracellular space. Agonist binding to a GPCR stabilizes an active receptor conformation which interacts with and activates heterotrimeric G proteins (Gαβγ) from cell surface and endosomal compartments. The Protease activated family of GPCRs (PARs) are unique in their mode of activation because they are activated by the cleavage at specific sites within the extracellular N-terminal domain of the GPCR. Protease-activated receptor type 2 (PAR2) is cleaved by various proteases which free different receptor tethered ligands that bind to and activate the cleaved PAR2. Once activated, PAR2 regulates multiple physiological and pathophysiological processes including inflammation and chronic pain. The aim of my project is to investigate the structural and molecular mechanisms that regulate PAR2 signaling following proteolytic cleavage. This research will assist us in designing novel and innovative therapeutic solutions for chronic pain or inflammation, which is in high demand.
Mes compétences :
R&D
Biotechnologies
Pharmacologie
Biologie moléculaire