NTU Undergraduates' research April 2014 - Biosciences | Page 19

Abstract
G-protein coupled receptors are the largest family of membrane bound receptors found ubiquitously
throughout the body, they are also one of the largest therapeutic drug targets. They play a key role in the
physiological functioning of all the organs. In previous years, GPCR’s were thought to exist solely as monomeric
units that stimulate the activation of downstream signalling cascades upon ligand binding. This review will
focus on the GABA B receptor which is now known to form a heterodimer of two GABA B receptor sub-units. It
will review the scientific studies conducted that led to this pioneering discovery, evaluate current knowledge
of the GABA B heterodimer as well as, assess current and future pharmacological approaches for the
development of therapeutic drugs for the treatment of a number of neurological disorders of which this
receptor is associated too.