~30% of the proteins in the human proteome are membrane proteins, yet they represent <1% of the proteins of known structure.  Their diverse and fundamental roles in cellular processes make them a new frontier of biological and biomedical research, which has in the past focused more on soluble components of cells. Membrane proteins and lipids, often in macromolecular assemblies, are responsible for the transport of materials into and out of cells, cell sensing and signal transduction, cell-cell contact recognition, cellular recognition of antigens in the immune system, detoxification of reactive compounds, intracellular compartmentalization and communication between compart-ments, and cell-cell communication via hormones, neurotransmitters, chemokines and other signaling molecules. 

Because of their central role in cell signaling and cell-surface accessibility to soluble agents, membrane receptors are the target for 40% of pharmaceuticals on the market (7 of the 15 most frequently prescribed drugs target membrane proteins).  Membrane functions are vital to health and, not surprisingly, specific defects in membrane proteins and toxic effects of membrane-active substances are associated with numerous known disease states.

Following a meeting between representatives from the UTH CMB, Baylor, and Rice membrane groups, a luncheon was organized attended by 21 faculty representing also MDACC, UH, and UTMB (all GCC member institutions).  A Chair was elected and members volunteered for 3 action items:  (1)  Summer seminar series;  (2) Next organizational meeting is a  Late Summer Retreat Sept 13, 2003, where governance and planning for a Symposium will be on the agenda, as well as research talks; (3) evening social event planned also for Fall.