Whistler Lab

Over 30% of FDA approved drugs target G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Our lab’s research focuses on GPCR pharmacology characterizing signal transduction at multiple GPCRs including opioid, dopamine, serotonin, and incretin receptors. We use a combination of in vitro biochemistry, cell-based assays, and rodent models to uncover the molecular and cellular mechanisms, and subsequent animal behavior, that results from drugs acting on GPCRs. Our goal is to inform new strategies for drug development that reduce side effects. Our lab is housed at the UC Davis Center for Neuroscience.