Eighty percent of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) have a C-terminal consensus sequence for post-translational modification by the addition of a 16-carbon palmitoyl group. This observation strongly suggests that palmitoylation plays an important role in receptor function. The long-term objective of the proposed study is to define the role of palmitoylation in G protein-coupled receptor signaling.
The specific aims of this proposal are to: 1) produce knock-in transgenic mice defective for rhodopsin palmitoylation; and 2) phenotypically characterize homozygous knock-in mice. Changes in retinal morphology and visual function will be assessed using a combination of histological, electrophysiological, and biochemical methods. A detailed understanding of rhodopsin structure/function relationships is essential for elucidating the cellular mechanisms by which more than 80 different rhodopsin mutations cause the group of human retinal degenerations collectively referred to as retinitis pigmentosa (RP).

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Eye Institute (NEI)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32EY013912-03
Application #
6779162
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-F03A (20))
Program Officer
Mariani, Andrew P
Project Start
2002-08-01
Project End
2005-07-31
Budget Start
2004-08-01
Budget End
2005-07-31
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
2004
Total Cost
$56,536
Indirect Cost
Name
Tufts University
Department
Type
DUNS #
079532263
City
Boston
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02111