Structure and dynamics of the PAC1R in different conformational states

The pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide 1 receptor (PAC1R) is a G protein-coupled receptor that is found in the outer membrane of cells, in particular in the central nervous system. From there, it can recognise and communicate signals from the outside to the inside of a cell, in order to regulate physiological processes including pain, stress, and learning. However, the specific molecular mechanisms that allow PAC1R to do this are not fully understood. This PhD seeks to remedy this by investigating the shape, structure, and movements of PAC1R, to better understand how this receptor functions.