G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) represent the largest family of proteins targeted by pharmaceutical industry as they regulate many cellular functions. Classically, GPCRs signal at the plasma membrane. Their internalisation leads to signalling arrest. However, recent studies revealed that upon internalisation, some GPCRs signal from intracellular compartments leading to sustained signalling far from plasma membrane.

This differential spatiotemporal signalling mediates unique cellular functions exploitable for novel pharmacological treatments. Dr. Plouffe’s research programme aims to tackle important questions underlying this signalling mode.