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apl. Prof. Dr. Dipl.-Biochem. Cornelius Krasel

Research interests

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the most relevant class of drug targets. The continuous stimulation of GPCRs leads to diminished receptor responses; this effect is called desensitization. We characterize the molecular events involved in GPCR desensitization; we are particularly interested in two protein families playing important roles in this process, the G-protein-coupled receptor kinases and the arrestins. In our research we can measure the interaction of GPCRs with other proteins in real time. One important area of research in the last years is the desensitization of opioid receptors which are important targets in the treatment of pain and addiction. We also attempt to understand why some GPCRs interact only transiently with arrestins at the plasma membrane and then internalize without the arrestins whereas other GPCRs co-internalize arrestins into endosomes.