Susan George

Many important CNS functions are intimately linked to the function of certain neuro-transmitter systems, such as the dopamine, opioid, serotonin and various neuropeptide neuronal systems. We are particularly interested in the G protein coupled receptors for these neurotransmitters, each of which exists as families of closely related proteins. The research focuses on the regulation of receptor function, receptor homo-oligomerization and hetero-oligomerization, second messenger coupling, structure-activity relationships, and brain distribution of the receptors and mRNA. Receptor gene-deleted animal models are studied to define the specific functions of the closely related receptor subtypes, particularly as models to define the receptor systems contributing to the vulnerability to substance abuse and neuropsychiatric disease. State of the art pharmacological, biochemical and molecular biological methodologies are utilized in our studies.