The Fletterick lab practices structural biology with purpose. That purpose is to learn about functions of systems in human biology and disease.

We study function with X-ray crystallography, mutagenesis, cell, biochemical and biophysical assays, and chemistry. One focus is structure-function of nuclear receptors including those thyroid hormone, and androgen, and for the orphan receptors called LRH-1, SF-1, SHP and DAX-1. These receptors control processes in development and LRH-1 is important in stem cell function. We develop structure-function relationships that control the regulation of these receptors.

Gene transcription is controlled by nuclear receptors, such as those for thyroid hormone and androgen. Some nuclear receptors, such as SF-1 and LRH-1 are active, and these have no identified hormone.  Yet since they control development of cells in gonad genesis their biological roles are profound.

Motility in cells provides for transport and regulates organelle placement.  Part of the lab studies motile proteins including kinesins, dyneins, actin, myosins and regulatory proteins to learn how molecules walk and transport cellular components.