The course seeks to provide knowledge on structural, molecular and cellular biology of membrane receptors and their signal transduction mechanisms. The main focus is on ligand-gated ion channels and G-protein coupled receptors operating in neuronal and/or hormonal signalling in animals but common themes and parallels to other systems will be explored as well. The course requires some background knowledge on biochemistry and is intended for advanced undergraduates and graduate students of biochemistry and related fields. Course materials will include review articles and current research literature. Short introductions will be followed by student presentations and, hopefully, lively discussions. Literature assignments will be made on the first time. Course language is English.
Updated 5.9.2006 (Kari Kein„nen)