Human GPCRs are the targets of approximately 34% of all FDA-approved drugs. GPCRs in fungi could also be useful drug targets, but no structures of fungal GPCRs had been solved. Chris Tate’s group has now determined the first structure of a fungal GPCR.
Insight on Research
Ribosomal rescue in our mitochondria
Mitochondrial ribosomes are different from those in the cytoplasm of human cells and little is known about their quality control. Venki Ramakrishnan’s group has discovered a novel pathway to rescue stalled mitoribosomes and determined structures of the rescue factors.
A connection between stress detection and lifestyle decisions in worms
Rebecca Taylor’s group has identified a signalling molecule that connects detection of a stressful environment by the nervous system with molecular defence mechanisms in other tissues and leads to changes in feeding behaviour and reproduction.
A new layer of complexity in GPCR signalling could explain differences in receptor function and drug response
GPCRs are the target of approximately 34% of approved drugs, reflecting their key role in cell function. Madan Babu’s group has uncovered how different receptor isoforms, existing in different combinations, could generate tissue-specific responses to the same signal or drug.
The brain’s immune defence comes from your gut
The importance of our brain is reflected in the measures evolved to protect it, including the skull and meninges. However, its immune defence has been less well understood. Menna Clatworthy’s group has now identified immune cells derived from the gut defending the meninges.
Atomic advance for cryo-EM
Looking at the precise 3D arrangement of atoms within a protein helps us to understand how it can perform its functions. Radu Aricescu’s and Sjors Scheres’ groups have now been able to resolve individual atoms for the first time in a three-dimensional cryo-EM image.