Prof. Susanna Cotecchia, who has only started her activity for a few months at the Bari University, has developed strong expertise in the molecular pharmacology of G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) . Results from human genome sequencing revealed that GPCRs are the largest family of genes (~ 2% of the human genome) that encode for membrane receptors, with very different signals such as light, odors, hormones and neurotransmitters. GPCRs are also the targets of a large proportion of drugs currently used (about 30% of the medicines in use). The role of receptors belonging to this family in proliferation and cell migration is well documented. However, Only recently has emerged the role of various GPCRs in tumor growth, angiogenesis and metastatic processes. For this reason, in the context of this project, the DiFiGeA Pharmacology Unit proposes to apply its expertise in the field of oncology considering the study of GPCRs in oncology an innovative aspect with considerable potential for application development.

Binding tests of pharmacological substances to membrane receptors;Secondary messenger measures (cyclic AMP, inositol phosphates);Molecular modeling of adrenergic receptors;Application of fluorescence techniques (FRET) to the study of receptors bound to proteins G