Stanford University · BiophysicsG Protein-Coupled Receptor Dynamics Lab
Brian K Kobilka · Stanford, California
Research Focus
Dr. Brian Kobilka's lab at Stanford University focuses on understanding how G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) work. These receptors play a crucial role in receiving signals from neurotransmitters and hormones, which helps control various bodily functions. The lab's research aims to uncover the structural and dynamic properties of GPCRs, particularly in how they signal through different pathways, including those involved in pain relief and side effects from drugs like opioids. This knowledge can lead to the development of better and safer medications.
G protein-coupled receptorsopioid receptorspathway-selective signalingcryo-electron microscopyprotein dynamicsanalgesicsdrug discoverybiophysical methodsstructural biology
Research Aims
4AIM 01Investigate the structural basis for selective signaling by opioid receptors.
AIM 02Characterize the conformational changes in GPCRs during activation.
AIM 03Determine the dynamics of protein interactions with G proteins and arrestins.
AIM 04Design novel pathway-selective agonists for opioid receptors.
Skills the Lab Values
cryo-electron microscopydouble electron-electron resonancesingle-molecule FRETprotein purificationmolecular modelingcell cultureligand binding assaysbiophysical characterizationstructure-guided drug design
Output against the department
Publications518top 10% of dept.1st of 10
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations80ktop 10% of dept.1st of 10
this lab
most citedleast cited
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