RESEARCH

G-protein binding receptor (GPCR) is one of the most evolutionarily diversified superfamilies in human genomes and is important for a variety of physiological functions inside the human body. GPCR is thus the most significant protein in the drug research and development process, since 30% of FDA-approved medications target GPCR. From atomic-level investigation of ligand-receptor interactions to in-vivo research, our group investigates all aspects of GPCR architectures and functions. In addition, our lab intends to find and create new regulatory ligands—small chemical probes or tool compounds—to determine whether a particular GPCR is appropriate as a target receptor for in-vitro and in-vivo drug development. In order to achieve our objectives, our lab employs numerous methods and technologies to screen the entire GPCR-ome via a massive parallel screening campaign, including BRET assay, functional assay, radioligand binding assay, computational docking, medical chemistry, and analog search, among others. Our laboratory focuses on receptors that are essential for neuronal function and reproduction.