abstract |
The present invention relates, in general, to a purinergic receptor and, particular, to a P2X 7 (also designated P2Z) receptor. The invention further relates to a nucleic acid encoding the P2X 7 receptor and to a method of producing P2X 7 combinantly using same. The invention also relates to a method of screening compounds for their ability to inhibit P2X 7 activity and thereby for their usefulness in treating a variety of diseases/disorders, including arthritic and respiratory disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. |