Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 2, 2026

Construction of Model Lipid Membranes Incorporating G-protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs)
Published on: February 5, 2022
Computational development of an alpha1A-adrenoceptor model in a membrane mimic
Gemma K Kinsella1, Isabel Rozas, Graeme W Watson
1Department of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
Abstract:
A number of subtypes of the alpha-adrenoceptor have been identified; however, knowledge of the three-dimensional structures of such membrane proteins is limited, and no crystal structure of an alpha-adrenoceptor is available to date. We have developed and analysed homology models of the alpha1A-adrenoceptor subtype based on the bovine rhodopsin crystal structure (1l9 h). Subsequent structural refinement was performed through molecular dynamics simulations using the Amber 7 suite of programs with a biphasic H2O/CHCl3/H2O cell utilised to mimic the receptor's natural membrane environment.
Related Concept Videos
Fluid Mosaic Model
Multi-pass Transmembrane Proteins and β-barrels
α-Helix containing multi-pass transmembrane proteins
Multi-pass transmembrane proteins such as G-protein-linked receptors (GPCRs) and...
The Two-State Receptor Model
The binding affinity of a drug determines its interaction with one...
Adrenergic Receptors: β Subtype
Isoprenaline > Adrenaline > Noradrenaline
Neurotransmitter binding to these receptors causes activation of adenylyl cyclase resulting in increased concentrations of cAMP and modulation of calcium ion channels within the cell. They are further classified into β1, β2, and β3 subtypes.
β1-adrenoceptors: β1-adrenoceptors have equal affinities for...
Adrenergic Antagonists: Chemistry and Classification of ɑ-Receptor Blockers
Nonselective α-blockers: Nonselective α-blockers contain haloalkylamine or imidazoline moieties. Phenoxybenzamine, with a haloalkylamine...
Adrenergic Antagonists: Pharmacological Actions of ɑ-Receptor Blockers
α1-blockers: These drugs inhibit α1-adrenoceptors on smooth muscle cells, resulting in vasodilation. This vasodilation lowers blood pressure, making α1-blockers valuable in treating hypertension. Additionally, α1-blockers effectively address urinary obstruction...

