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The Ligand Gated Ion Channel Database
1Neurobiologie Moléculaire, URA CNRS 1281, Institut Pasteur, 25 rue du Dr Roux, 75724 Paris cedex 15, France. lenov@pasteur.fr
Nucleic Acids Research
|December 10, 1998
Summary
A new database catalogs ligand-gated ion channels (LGICs), which are crucial neurotransmitter receptors. This resource provides essential sequence and phylogenetic data for these important protein superfamilies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Ligand-gated ion channels (LGICs) are critical ionotropic receptors mediating neurotransmission.
- These receptors are composed of homologous subunits, forming superfamilies.
- Understanding LGIC structure and function is vital for neuroscience and drug discovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a centralized database for ligand-gated ion channel (LGIC) subunits.
- To provide a comprehensive resource for researchers studying LGICs.
- To facilitate the analysis of sequence and evolutionary relationships among LGICs.
Main Methods:
- Database development integrating nucleic acid and protein sequences.
- Inclusion of multiple sequence alignments and phylogenetic studies.
- Web-based accessibility with continuous updates and downloadable versions.
Main Results:
- A comprehensive database of cloned LGIC subunits has been established.
- The database includes diverse data types: nucleic acid sequences, protein sequences, alignments, and phylogenetic analyses.
- The resource is accessible online and available for download.
Conclusions:
- The developed LGIC database serves as a valuable, continuously updated resource for the scientific community.
- This database supports research into the structure, function, and evolution of ligand-gated ion channels.
- Facilitates easier access to critical data for LGIC research worldwide.