Scientists have recently made a major breakthrough in understanding the molecular function of a key G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). This receptor, called GPCR12, is part of a family of receptors that are found in virtually all animals and play an important role in many physiological processes. By combining X-ray crystallography and electron microscopy, the researchers were able to determine the three-dimensional structure of GPCR12 and its interaction with its partner protein, Gα. This discovery has major implications for our understanding of how GPCRs work and their role in cell signaling. It could also lead to advances in drug design, as many drugs target GPCRs to treat a variety of diseases, from hypertension to cancer.

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source: Phys.org