Research Areas

The Receptor Biology laboratory at IIT Jammu focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in physiological and pathophysiological processes. GPCRs play a vital role as mediators of cellular signaling and are the largest receptor superfamily encoded by the human genome. Recognizing their involvement in numerous biological functions and their significance as drug targets, the lab aims to unravel the intricate workings of GPCRs at the molecular level to develop safer and more effective therapeutics.

To achieve this, the lab employs a range of research techniques, including biochemical, biophysical, chemogenetic, and pharmacological approaches. By utilizing multiple methods, we strive to comprehensively understand GPCR function and its molecular interactions and signaling pathways.

The lab's research themes focus on two key areas. Firstly, to investigate the molecular basis of interaction and modulation between GPCRs and pore-forming toxins. The insight into toxin influence on GPCRs can yield underappreciated signaling responses and immunomodulatory effects on our physiology. A holistic understanding of the dynamics of toxin-receptor interaction and signaling will open up new opportunities to develop novel therapeutic interventions.

Secondly, the lab is dedicated to unraveling the mechanisms behind signaling bias in GPCRs. GPCR biasing involves selectively activating or inhibiting specific signaling pathways downstream of a GPCR while sparing others. GPCR biasing holds great promise for developing next-generation therapeutics with enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects. Our continuing research effort in this direction is expected to uncover new insights into GPCR signaling and facilitate the design of novel drugs that can selectively modulate specific signaling pathways, leading to more precise and personalized treatments for various diseases.