Structure of an Agonist-bound Human A2A Adenosine Receptor (IMAGE)
Caption
In this representation, the newly determined structure of the A2A receptor for adenosine is shown surrounding its synthetic agonist, a molecule that turns on the receptor. The spiral shapes and the slim connecting loops represent the receptor protein, winding back and forth through the cell membrane. The central (red) part of the agonist is critical for activation of the receptor. The top (tan-colored) part of the agonist, facing the outside of the cell, acts like arms to fill much of the remaining space in the binding site and stabilize the receptor, in order to obtain a crystallized structure.
Credit
NIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Usage Restrictions
The image may only be used with appropriate caption and credit.
License
Licensed content