7TMR necklace

7TMR necklace | sterling silver

Seven alpha-helices spanning the membrane — the architecture of the largest and most pharmacologically important receptor superfamily in the human genome.

The Science of the Seven-Transmembrane Receptor

Seven-transmembrane receptors (7TMRs), also called G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), are the largest superfamily of membrane receptors in the human genome — over 800 genes, ~4% of the entire proteome. They share a common architecture: seven hydrophobic alpha-helices that span the plasma membrane, connected by extracellular and intracellular loops. Ligand binding induces a conformational change that activates intracellular G proteins, triggering diverse second messenger cascades. GPCRs mediate the responses to hormones, neurotransmitters, odorants, light (rhodopsin), and taste molecules. They are the targets of approximately 34% of all FDA-approved drugs. Robert Lefkowitz and Brian Kobilka shared the 2012 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for GPCR structural and mechanistic work.

A Meaningful Gift for Science Lovers

A piece for pharmacologists, molecular biologists, and anyone whose research touches GPCRs.

• For the pharmacologist, structural biologist, or drug discovery researcher
• For a neuroscientist — GPCRs mediate most neuromodulator signalling
• For a student who has worked through GPCR signalling cascades
• As a piece connecting Nobel Prize-winning structural biology

Comes in a gift box. Free worldwide shipping.

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FAQ

Q: What do you give a pharmacologist who understands how nearly everything works?

A: This. Seven-transmembrane receptors (GPCRs) are the largest superfamily of cell surface proteins, with over 800 genes in the human genome representing roughly 4% of all protein-coding DNA. A pharmacologist, molecular biologist, or anyone who has memorised the names of signal transduction pathways will recognise it immediately. Ships free worldwide via DHL Express in 1-5 business days in a ready-to-gift box.

Q: Why are 7TMRs so important to drug discovery?

A: Because roughly one-third of all FDA-approved drugs target GPCRs. From adrenaline receptors to serotonin receptors to chemokine receptors, the 7TMR fold allows cells to translate extracellular signals into intracellular responses across virtually every physiological system. Understanding their structure and pharmacology has been central to modern medicine.

Q: What are the size and material?

A: 24 mm pendant in 925 sterling silver on a 45 cm chain with a 5 cm extender. Nickel-free and hypoallergenic. All import duties and taxes are covered by Science Jewelry 18:24, so no customs surprises.

Q: Is there a gold version?

A: This 7TMR is available in sterling silver. We also offer it in 18k gold vermeil. Both versions are covered by a 30-day Love It or Return It policy.