Functional characterization of disease-associated NMDA receptor mutations

Selective targeting at a particular G-protein mediated signalling pathway by biased agonists, via agonist-specific conformation, can be the right way to achieve selectivity among individual subtypes of muscarinic receptors. This project aims to perform a detailed binding and functional analysis of newly synthesized agonists based on tetrahydropyridine displaying promising potential for signalling bias. 

Mechanisms of selective activation of individual subtypes of muscarinic receptors

Striatal acetylcholine (ACh) plays a crucial role in the control of striatal-based behaviour, including motor control and learning. The effect of ACh in the striatum is mediated through muscarinic and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). In our project, we investigate what behaviour is controlled by striatal nAChRs and the underlying mechanisms. We use mouse models with the deletion of β2-nAChRs in specific neuronal populations and test the effect on striatal functions and behaviour.