Receptor Biology Research Unit
Current projects
- We are continuing our
successful programme focusing on the structure and activation mechanism
of the type I GnRH receptor, the current emphasis being on defining the
ligand binding pocket as a prelude for developing orally active GnRH analogues.
- We have cloned from
an amphibian and a primate, a second GnRH receptor subtype (type II GnRH
receptor) - which appears to play a role in regulating reproduction and
sexual behaviour.
- We are studying the
ligand specificity and structure function relationships of this novel type
II GnRH receptor as a basis to the design and development of type II GnRH
analogues.
- We are characterising
the desensitisation and internalisation of the type II GnRH receptor.
- In addition, we are
cloning the human and mouse versions of this receptor in order to study
its physiological function and regulation of its expression.
Our extensive experience
with GnRH receptors has allowed us to broaden the programme to include other
G protein-coupled receptor systems affecting reproductive health.
- We have cloned and
are currently characterising a placental G protein-coupled receptor that
is similar to the receptors for LH and FSH.
- We have also embarked
on a study aimed at understanding the role of cyclo-oxygenases and prostaglandins
in cervical carcinomas as a basis for developing better treatment of this
disease, which is wide-spread in South African women.
- Lastly, we are investigating
the structural basis of HIV recognition by the chemokine receptor CCR5,
which is a G protein-coupled receptor and found to be a necessary co-receptor
in HIV infection.
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