ORGN 394 |
| Chemical-scale insights into the mechanisms of action of neuroreceptors and ion channels are difficult to obtain. These complex, membrane-bound, typically multisubunit proteins are not amenable to crystallography or NMR, and so structural information is minimal. Yet, these are the molecules of memory, thought, and sensory perception, and the targets of therapeutic approaches to Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, ADHD, addiction, and many other disorders. Using a combination of organic synthesis, molecular biology, electrophysiology, and computer modeling, we have developed general approaches to unraveling the mysteries of these critical receptors. We will describe studies of both drug binding and channel gating in receptors for nicotine, serotonin, and GABA. We will also discuss a different view of small molecule-protein interactions that is necessary in studies of receptors vs. the more classical, enyzme-substrate models. |
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Elias J. Corey Award for Outstanding Original Contribution in Organic Synthesis by a Young Investigator
1:20 PM-5:00 PM, Tuesday, 15 March 2005 Convention Center -- Ballroom 20A-B, Oral
Division of Organic Chemistry |