- Dr Jon Heras
- PPAR Delta Activator
- Anim./Multimedia-D/Exhibits
PPARs (Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor) are a group of receptor proteins that function as transcription factors regulating the expression of genes. They play essential roles in the regulation of cellular differentiation, development, and metabolism.
They are being targeted as a way of producing a “thin pill†for humans which would modulate the activity of the PPAR-delta, agonism of which changes the body’s fuel preference from glucose to lipids, thereby reducing the body’s fat content.
The molecule shown is a potential pharmaceutical, a ligand which binds to a human PPAR-delta receptor. Its molecular formula is C27 H36 F2 N2 O4.
Carbon is represented in grey, oxygen in red, nitrogen in blue, and fluorine in turquoise.
- Collections: Molecular
About the Artist: Dr Jon Heras x
I run Equinox Graphics, a small technical illustration and animation studio in Cambridge, after completing my PhD in engineering, and we have worked for important clients such as Bloodhound SSC, ESA, NASA, Nature, Design Council, Institute of Physics, Institute of Mechanical Engineers, Windfall Films, etc., and have been published in Nature, Science, BMJ, The Lancet, New Scientist, Chemistry World, The Ecologist as well as BBC news and science publications.
Our hands-on science and engineering backgrounds remove the knowledge gap that can frustrate communication on technical projects. We have developed a distinctive style, and our work was recently recognised by Science magazine, being awarded an honourable mention (i.e. runner-up) in their 2011 Science and Engineering Visualization Challenge, which is fiercely fought by artists and scientists alike from around the world.
We have a wide knowledge of both the biological and physical sciences, and can communicate with scientists to ensure accuracy and functionality in our science communication media.