GPCR (COM)

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a large and diverse family of membrane proteins that play a crucial role in cellular signaling. With over 800 distinct GPCRs identified in humans, they are involved in the regulation of key physiological processes such as neurotransmission, immune response, and hormone signaling. GPCRs are also major drug targets, with approximately one-third of all approved pharmaceuticals acting on these receptors to treat conditions ranging from cardiovascular disease to mental health disorders. However, few universities offer the capabilities to do large-scale drug screening and signal transduction monitoring.

The Penn State College of Medicine is excited to share information on a new G-Protein Coupled Receptor Assay Service Center. The assay service center was established to accelerate scientific discovery in GPCR physiology and pharmacology. Instrumentation in the Service Center includes a FlexStation 3 Multi-Mode Microplate Reader, a Neon NxT Electroporation System, and a Countess 3 Automated Cell Counter.

Services available include:

• Identifying GPCR signal transduction pathways

• GPCR ligand concentration-response relationships

• GPCR pharmacological profiles

• Heterologous expression of GPCR of interest

• Data analysis