Receptor Biochemistry

Abstract This book is one of a trio of volumes covering practical aspects of neurotransmitter and hormone-receptor-ligand interactions, receptor biochemistry, and receptor-effector coupling. The acquisition of 3-dimensional structural information about receptors, particularly through the application of crystallographic and other physical techniques will require the purification and handling of significant amounts of receptor proteins. This book focuses particularly on strategies which have proved successful in the purification of a number of receptors of pharmacological importance. Included are examples of G-protein coupled receptors, oligomeric receptors which incorporate an integral ion channel, and receptor tyrosine kinases. Specific aspects covered include the choice of detergents for solubilization, the synthesis and utilization of specific affinity gels, the characterization of purified receptor proteins, and techniques for specific polypeptide cleavage, peptide mapping, and the isolation of sequenceable peptides. There is also an introduction to structural prediction from receptor sequences, and the high-level expression of cloned receptor genes. The book draws on the practical experience and insight of a number of scientists who have been at the forefront of progress in this difficult and demanding field.