“Signaling at the Right Place and the Right Time: Molecular and Cellular Interrogation of Compartmentalized GPCR Signaling”
Roshanak Irannejad | UCSF
My research is focused on understanding the interplay of vesicular trafficking with cell signaling mechanisms. We investigate G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling, the largest family of membrane receptors. To visualize receptor signaling in intact cells and in real time, we have developed genetically encoded biosensors by utilizing single chain antibodies, known as nanobodies. We discovered that in addition to their well-established plasma membrane localized signaling events, GPCR signaling also occurs from the Golgi apparatus and endosomes. These findings challenge some of the core tenets of ligand accessibility and how GPCR signaling is regulated. Additionally, we have discovered transport mechanisms that allow for membrane impermeable ligands to access compartments within the cell. My lab is currently focused on elucidating the molecular consequences of compartmentalized signaling and understanding the organelle-specific mechanisms that regulate signaling and its termination.
