29th Annual Student Research Conference
Validation of A Molecular Model for Trace Amine Associated Receptor 1
Mario J. Castellanos
Dr. Yohei Norimatsu (A.T. Still University) and Dr. Timothy D. Walston, Faculty Mentors
Trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) is a G-protein-coupled receptor that is expressed at low levels in a number of areas of the brain. It is activated by a class of compounds called trace amines, which arise from the metabolism of common monoamine neurotransmitters. Since its discovery in 2001, groups of investigators have linked TAAR1 function to the regulation of neurotransmission in the brain. Given its effect as a molecular break on neurotransmission, a prospect of TAAR1 as a therapeutic target for hyperdopaminergic disorders and drug addiction has emerged. Using mutagenesis studies we tested our molecular model of TAAR1 by selectively mutating binding pocket residues predicted to be important for ligand binding by the model. Electrophysiological recordings were taken to assess the binding affinity of trace amine beta-phenylethylamine to the TAAR1 mutants.
Keywords: trace amine-associated receptor 1, schizophrenia, trace amines, GPCR, electrophysiology
Topic(s):Biology
Chemistry
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 4-13
Location: GEO-SUB
Time: 3:30