About this Research Topic
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a prominent family of membrane proteins integral to cellular communication and signal transduction. Over recent decades, they have become pivotal in drug development, serving as targets for numerous therapeutic agents. Within this family, orphan GPCRs stand out due to the absence of identified natural ligands, leaving their physiological and pathological roles largely uncharted. This gap in knowledge is particularly significant in the context of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases, where understanding these receptors could unveil new therapeutic avenues. Recent studies have made strides in this area, employing knockout or transgenic mice and pharmacological approaches to shed light on the roles of orphan GPCRs. Despite these advances, the field still lacks comprehensive insights into the molecular mechanisms and behavioral outcomes associated with these receptors, underscoring the need for further investigation.
This research topic aims to deepen our understanding of orphan G protein-coupled receptors and their roles in neurodegenerative diseases. By focusing on the physiological and pathological functions of these receptors, the research seeks to identify novel therapeutic targets that could transform treatment strategies for these debilitating conditions. Key questions include the identification of natural ligands, elucidation of signaling pathways, and the impact of orphan GPCRs on disease progression. The research will test hypotheses related to the molecular and behavioral effects of these receptors, ultimately aiming to propose innovative therapeutic solutions.
To gather further insights in the functional and therapeutic roles of orphan GPCRs in neurodegenerative diseases, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Identification and characterization of natural ligands for orphan GPCRs.
- Molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways involving orphan GPCRs.
- The role of orphan GPCRs in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
- Development and validation of computational models for orphan GPCRs.
- In vitro and in vivo studies exploring the therapeutic potential of targeting orphan GPCRs.
- Clinical trials assessing the efficacy of novel treatments targeting orphan GPCRs.
This research topic aims to deepen our understanding of orphan G protein-coupled receptors and their roles in neurodegenerative diseases. By focusing on the physiological and pathological functions of these receptors, the research seeks to identify novel therapeutic targets that could transform treatment strategies for these debilitating conditions. Key questions include the identification of natural ligands, elucidation of signaling pathways, and the impact of orphan GPCRs on disease progression. The research will test hypotheses related to the molecular and behavioral effects of these receptors, ultimately aiming to propose innovative therapeutic solutions.
To gather further insights in the functional and therapeutic roles of orphan GPCRs in neurodegenerative diseases, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Identification and characterization of natural ligands for orphan GPCRs.
- Molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways involving orphan GPCRs.
- The role of orphan GPCRs in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
- Development and validation of computational models for orphan GPCRs.
- In vitro and in vivo studies exploring the therapeutic potential of targeting orphan GPCRs.
- Clinical trials assessing the efficacy of novel treatments targeting orphan GPCRs.
Keywords: Orphan GPCR, G protein-coupled receptors, Fatty acids, Deorphanization GPCR, Neurodegenerative disease, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Brain, Neuromodulation
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
