The Molecular basis for action of allosteric ligands in chemokine receptors

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G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a large pharmacologically important family of membrane receptors that activate a cellular response when activated by a hormone. The chemokine receptors are involved in processes of inflammation, viral infections, healing and cancer. Recently, a novel class of allosteric ligands that modulate the receptor response to its native ligand, has been developed for chemokine receptors. The PhD project will focus of understanding the molecular basis for the allosteric ligand activity, as it would be very advantageous for the development of novel allosteric ligands. One of the main techniques used will be advanced protein engineering and high throughput scanning mutagenesis coupled with novel state of the art signalling assays. For the interpretation of data, the candidate will also use structural bioinformatics and machine learning techniques. The project will provide an excellent opportunity to develop skills in structural pharmacology. The student will be embedded in COMPARE, one of the leading centres for GPCR research in Europe. COMPARE consists of 31 research groups with diverse expertise ranging from medicinal chemistry, signalling and pharmacology, advanced optical microscopy to structural biology, physiology and machine learning. It is quite a unique constellation of expertise focused on GPCRs, excellent facilities, and a vibrant international research environment of over 40 PhD students and postdocs.