Article Abstract:
Beta-adrenoceptors were found to exhibit seven transmembrane alpha-helical structures similar to the secondary structural formations taken by rhodopsin and bacteriorhodopsin. The genetic analysis results showed that the amino acid groups in the receptor's hydrophobic core had more important ligand binding functions than the hydrophilic loops linking the seven hydrophobic regions. Moreover, fluorescence examinations utilizing carazolol ligands revealed that the whole ligand-binding site was buried within the receptor's core structure.
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Article Abstract:
The successful cloning of the glutamate receptor subunits paves the way to better understanding its physiological significance in brain functions. These receptors mediate excitatory synaptic neurotransmission through ion channel mechanisms. Response to glutamate is modulated by specific amino acid residues at the binding portion and confers changes in functional activity. Synthesis of receptors is controlled by genetic mechanisms and shows molecular and functional differences through time.
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Article Abstract:
The first International Conference on Immunophilins in the Brain was held in Schlangenbad/Frankfurt, Germany, on July 9-10, 1999. Topics include the function of FKBP peptidylprolyl cis-trans-isomerases, FKBP inhibitors as mediators of neuroprotection and regeneration, the clinical potential of immunophilin ligands, and the functional and neuroprotective aspects of cyclopphilins.
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