9603590 Levin The functional contacts between nerve cells are called synapses, and the biochemical compounds that carry signals between the cells at the synapse are called neurotransmitters. The transmitter molecules are captured on the surface of the cell membrane of the target cell by molecules called receptors. Classes of transmitters, like particular amino acids, or particular catecholamine compounds, were known to have particular receptor types that triggered particular responses in the post-synaptic cell. More recently, subtypes of receptor molecules have been found, often with different chemical binding affinities, molecular arrangement, and coupling mechanisms. This symposium covers recent advances at the molecular level in understanding the subtypes of the particular receptors called muscarinic receptors, which modulate the responses of nerve and muscle cells to a widespread neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. Support is to help cover some travel costs young investigators in the field to be able to attend and deliver their own research results at this meeting. This support will have an impact on fostering the career development of young neuroscientists, and the symposium presentations will have an impact on muscle and cardiovascular research as well as neuroscience.
