Assignment task:
Once bound to a signaling molecule or ligand, a GPCR undergoes a conformational change that then triggers an interaction with a nearby G protein. What are G proteins? How is a G protein activated? How is a G protein inactivated? Activation of a single G protein can result in the production of hundreds or even thousands of second messenger molecules. What is a second messenger? Provide an example of a second messenger and its role in the cell. GPCRs help regulate an enormous range of bodily functions and therefore are the targets of many pharmaceutical drugs. Do some research and identify a drug that targets GPCR. What is the name of the drug? What is the drug used to treat? What is the mechanism of action of the drug? Caffeine is consumed worldwide and elicits some of its effects by targeting adenosine receptors, which are GCPRs. What types of caffeinated beverages do you consume? Do some research on the effects of caffeine and share some pros and cons. Based on your research, do you think it is possible to consume too much caffeine? Why or why not?