David Julius, Ph.D.
Professor and Vice Chair of Cellular & Molecular Pharmacology



Contact Information:
julius@cmp.ucsf.edu
Tel: (415) 476-0431/
476-0432
Fax: (415) 502-8644
Box 2140
Genentech Hall
Room N-272E

Links:
lab website
Neuroscience
Biomedical Sciences
PIBS
Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI)

Publications

Molecular biology of neurotransmitter receptors and ion channels

We are interested in the mechanisms whereby receptors and ion channels of the vertebrate nervous system detect extracellular signals and transduce this information into physiological changes at the cellular and organismal level. One of our goals is to understand how receptors recognize chemical and physical stimuli and transduce this information across the plasma membrane through changes in protein structure or protein-protein interactions. Another goal is to elucidate behavioral and physiological roles for specific receptor subtypes in the nervous system, particularly with regard to process that contribute to pain, stress, and anxiety.

In this project, we use genetic methods to study the physiological roles of the receptors. In one project, we have identified a molecular component of the pain transduction pathway by asking how capsaicin, the main pungent ingredient in 'hot' chili peppers, elicits a sensation of burning pain. Another recent project has led to the identification of a novel polypeptide toxin from predatory marine snails. This toxin potently and selectively blocks activation of the 5-HT3 receptor, a serotonin-gated ion channel. We are using this new toxin to study the channel.

A proposed pharmacogenomics core laboratory suite would greatly enhance our studies by providing sequencing and array technology for our genetic studies of this important receptor/channel which represents a potential new target for drugs and toxins.