Grant: Operating Grant

G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the single largest family of cell surface proteins involved in signal transduction, and represent one of the major pharmaceutical targets. Action of drugs and hormones are intricately linked to the constant presence of these receptors on the cells surface, which in normal condition is regulated by the internalization and intracellular trafficking processes. Deregulation of these processes can lead to abnormal cell behaviors, and the development of pathological conditions. Although we have gain a basic understanding of some of the components for receptor internalization and trafficking, much remains to be understood on the signaling mechanisms and regulators involved in these events. Her we propose to use innovative molecular and cell biological approaches to identify and study key regulators for the internalization and intracellular trafficking of the angiotensin and bradykinin receptors; two GPCRs that are important drug targets in cardiovascular therapies. We believe that our study will not only provide new insights into the molecular details for these events, but may also help identifying new targets to improve drug efficiency for hypertension, inflammation and pain.