Receptors are proteins that are involved in the communication between nerve cells, playing an important role in cellular activity. The goal of this research project is to study the muscarinic receptor, a receptor activated by the chemical release of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, which causes different effects in cells. Initial studies will be performed to determine which of the five subtypes of the muscarinic receptor alters cellular activity. In order to accomplish this, Dr. Jones will develop probes, antibodies that are raised against each of the muscarinic receptor subtypes. These probes will attach only to the receptor subtype against which the antibody was raised. It is postulated that these antibodies will prevent the activation of the receptors. By monitoring the activity induced by the receptors individually, the antibody can be added, and if the activity of the receptor is terminated the antibodies are thus considered useful probes. Understanding the mechanisms by which these receptors control cellular activity in nerve cells will aid in the understanding of how the brain works.
