Javier V. Navarro, PhD
Professor, Department of Neuroscience & Cell Biology
Tel: (409) 772-5480
Fax: (409) 772-3222
E-mail: jnavarro@utmb.edu
Campus Location: 10.104 Medical Research Bldg
Mail Route: 1043
Research
Our work focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms of G
protein-coupled receptors. These are seven-helix transmembrane receptors
acting as detectors of signals including odor, light, hormones,
neurotransmitters, and as mediators for the entry of HIV-1. Genes
encoding these receptors occupy a hefty 3% of the human genome. Of
importance is that these receptors are the target of about 60% of drugs
used to treat human diseases. In my laboratory we are applying X-ray
crystallography to elucidate the atomic structure of seven-helix
transmembrane receptors. Genetic and biophysical approaches are also
applied to determine the role of specific domains on the function of
these receptors.