معرفی
Cindy Zhang is a Research Fellow at Monash University's Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MIPS), part of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. Her work focuses on understanding G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) activation mechanisms using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), particularly in class B1 GPCRs relevant to metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity. She leads and collaborates on projects such as the cryo-EM determination of GPCR states and structural characterization of GLP-1 receptor complexes. Her research integrates structural biology, computational modeling, and biochemical approaches to advance drug discovery.
- Key Projects:
- Primary Chief Investigator (PCI) for 'Cryo-electron microscopy determination of GPCR states' (2023–2026)
- Chief Investigator (CI) in 'Structural characterization of GLP-1R and amylin receptors' (2023–2024)
- CI in 'Orphan GPCR structure determination' (2021–2025)
Her research addresses how ligands bind and activate GPCRs, influencing signaling pathways critical for drug development. Recent publications highlight lipid-dependent GPR3 activation and GLP-1R dynamics. No formal awards are listed, but her work contributes to UN SDGs related to health and innovation.
