This detailed volume assembles comprehensive protocols to assist with the study of structural, molecular, cell biological, and in vivo facets of GPCRs, and to enable the development of experimental tools for screening novel GPCR drugs. Sections explore the tweaking of ligands, bioluminescence and FRET approaches, specific GPCR signaling properties, as well as visualization of subcellular compartmentalization. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, G Protein-Coupled Receptor Signaling: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal reference for life scientists working in a variety of research fields including molecular pharmacology, cell and developmental biology, brain behavior and physiology, drug development and screening. Chapter 4 is available open access under a CC BY 4.0 license via link.springer.com.

Many advances have been made in the last decade in the understanding of the computational principles underlying olfactory system functioning. Neuromorphic Olfaction is a collaboration among European researchers who, through NEUROCHEM (Fp7-Grant Agreement Number 216916)-a challenging and innovative European-funded project-introduce novel computing p

Main Question: G protein coupled receptors are involved in highly efficient and specific activation of signalling pathways. How do GPCR signalling complexes get assembled to generate such specificity? In order to answer this question, we need to understand how receptors and their signalling partners are synthesized, folded and quality-controlled in order to generate functional proteins. Then, we need to understand how each partner of the signalling complex is selected to join a complex, and what makes this assembly possible. GPCRs are known to be able to function as oligomers, what drives the assembly into oligomers and what will be the effects of such organization on specificity and efficacy of signal transduction. Once the receptor complexes are assembled, they need to reach different locations in the cell; what drives and controls the trafficking of GPCR signalling complexes. Finally, defects in synthesis, maturation or trafficking can alter functionality of GPCRs signalling complexes; how can we manipulate the system to make it function normally again? Pharmacological chaperones may just be part of the answer to this question.

This fully updated edition targets not only those assays directly involved in the discovery of GPCR-active compounds but also those involved in cell-based experiments designed to study physiological responses. Whether coming from academia or industry, or being an experienced researcher or a newcomer to the field, the reader will find accessible methods and protocols that cover the latest developments on receptor purification, molecular biology, recombinant engineering, and analytical techniques that enable the real time monitoring of the complex GPCR signaling cascade and identification of potential drug targets. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and up-to-date, G Protein-Coupled Receptor Screening Assays: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition aims to provide the tools necessary to contribute to the advancement of GPCR research and discovery and ultimately lead to the availability of innovative and more efficient drugs.

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are believed to be the largest family of membrane proteins involved in signal transduction and cellular responses. They dimerize (form a pair of macromolecules) with a wide variety of other receptors. The proposed book will provide a comprehensive overview of GPCR dimers, starting with a historical perspective and including, basic information about the different dimers, how they synthesize, their signaling properties, and the many diverse physiological processes in which they are involved. In addition to presenting information about healthy GPCR dimer activity, the book will also include a section on their pathology and therapeutic potentials.

This volume provides comprehensive coverage of the current knowledge of the physiology of the endocrine system and hormone synthesis and release, transport, and action at the molecular and cellular levels. It presents essential as well as in-depth information of value to both medical students and specialists in Endocrinology, Gynecology, Pediatrics, and Internal Medicine. Although it is well established that the endocrine system regulates essential functions involved in growth, reproduction, and homeostasis, it is increasingly being recognized that this complex regulatory system comprises not only hormones secreted by the classic endocrine glands but also hormones and regulatory factors produced by many organs, and involves extensive crosstalk with the neural and immune system. At the same time, our knowledge of the molecular basis of hormone action has greatly improved. Understanding this complexity of endocrine physiology is crucial to prevent endocrine disorders, to improve the sensitivity of our diagnostic tools, and to provide the rationale for pharmacological, immunological, or genetic interventions. It is such understanding that this book is designed to foster.