Research Interests

Our research focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling. GPCRs represent the largest class of cell-surface receptors, activated by a wide array of ligands such as sensory stimuli, hormones, and neurotransmitters. These receptors are pivotal in regulating essential cellular processes, including chemotaxis and synaptic plasticity, and are integral to nearly all physiological systems.

Due to their critical roles, dysregulation of GPCR signaling is implicated in numerous human diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, metabolic syndromes, and viral infections. As a result, GPCRs are prominent targets for therapeutic intervention. By elucidating their signaling pathways at the molecular level, our research aims to address key challenges in public health and advance the development of innovative treatments.

Representative Publications

  1. The structure and function of the ghrelin receptor coding for drug actions.
    Shiimural Y*, Im D, Tany R, Asada H, Kise R, Kurumiya E, Wakasugi-Masuho H, Yasuda S, Matsui K, Kishikawa J, Kato T, Murata T, Kojima M, Iwata S* and Masuho I*
    Nature Structural & Molecular Biology (2025)
    *Corresponding authors

  2. Rules and mechanisms governing G protein coupling selectivity of GPCRs.
    Masuho I*, Kise R, Gainza P, Moo EV, Li X, Tany R, Wakasugi-Masuho H, Correia BE, and Martemyanov KA*.
    Cell Reports (2023)
    *Corresponding authors

  3. Diversity of the Gβγ complexes defines spatial and temporal bias of GPCR signaling.
    Masuho I*, Skamangas NK, Muntean BS, Martemyanov KA*.
    Cell Systems (2021)
    *Corresponding authors

  4. A global map of G protein signaling regulation by RGS proteins.
    Masuho I, Balaji S, BMuntean BS, Skamangas NK, Chavali S, Tesmer JJG, Babu MM, Martemyanov KA.
    Cell (2020)

  5. Molecular deconvolution platform to establish disease mechanisms by surveying GPCR signaling.
    Masuho I, Chavali S, Muntean BS, Skamangas NK, Simonyan K, Patil DN, Kramer GM, Ozelius L, and Babu MM, Martemyanov KA.
    Cell Reports (2018)

  6. Distinct profiles of functional discrimination among G proteins determine the actions of G protein-coupled receptors.
    Masuho I, Ostrovskaya O, Kramer GM, Jones CD, Xie K, Martemyanov KA.
    Science Signaling (2015)

Not by weaving complex theories, not by building speculative philosophies, I desire a deep understanding of simple and beautiful truths.

増保 生郎 
Ikuo Masuho, PhD
E-mail: Ikuo.Masuho@SanfordHealth.org

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