Building a new conceptual framework for receptor heteromers.
Receptor heteromers constitute a new area of research that is reshaping our thinking about biochemistry, cell biology, pharmacology and drug discovery. In this commentary, we recommend clear definitions that should facilitate both information exchange and research on this growing class of transmembrane signal transduction units and their complex properties. We also consider research questions underlying the proposed nomenclature, with recommendations for receptor heteromer identification in native tissues and their use as targets for drug development.
Ferré
Sergi
S
National Institute on Drug Abuse, IRP, NIH, DHHS, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA. sferre@intra.nida.nih.gov
Baler
Ruben
R
Bouvier
Michel
M
Caron
Marc G
MG
Devi
Lakshmi A
LA
Durroux
Thierry
T
Fuxe
Kjell
K
George
Susan R
SR
Javitch
Jonathan A
JA
Lohse
Martin J
MJ
Mackie
Ken
K
Milligan
Graeme
G
Pfleger
Kevin D G
KD
Pin
Jean-Philippe
JP
Volkow
Nora D
ND
Waldhoer
Maria
M
Woods
Amina S
AS
Franco
Rafael
R
D015195:Drug Design; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000378:metabolism; D015398:Signal Transduction
D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface