G Protein-Coupled Receptor Signaling and Regulation

Dear Colleagues,

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of proteins in animals, with more than 800 distinct subtypes in humans. GPCRs are targeted by a larger percentage of clinically-used drugs than any other protein family. All GPCRs have seven α-helical transmembrane domains (that is why they are also called seven transmembrane domain receptors, or 7TMRs) and, upon stimulation, change their conformation. Different GPCRs respond to light, odorants, pheromones, taste molecules, hormones, neurotransmitters, extracellular calcium, and many other stimuli. Most GPCRs couple to the G proteins (hence the name). GPCRs serve as guanyl nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) for heterotrimeric G proteins, facilitating the release of bound GDP and the binding of GTP abundant in the cytoplasm. GTP-liganded G protein α-subunit dissociates from the βγ-subunit, whereupon both subunits interact with various effectors, regulating their activity. Active GPCR during its lifetime activates several G protein molecules, thereby amplifying the signal. Most effectors are enzymes or ion channels, ensuring additional signal amplification. G protein α-subunits self-inactivate via intrinsic GTPase activity. RGS (Regulators of G protein signaling) proteins facilitate this self-inactivation. Many GPCRs are regulated by the phosphorylation by GPCR kinases (GRKs) that specifically target active receptors. Active phosphorylated GPCRs bind arrestin proteins with high affinity. Arrestin binding precludes GPCR coupling to G proteins, often mediates the recruitment of the receptor to the coated pits for internalization, and initiates arrestin-mediated signaling.

Research articles, review articles, and communications on every aspect of GPCR activation and regulation, as well as on proteins participating in GPCR signal transduction, are invited.

Prof. Dr. Vsevolod V. Gurevich
Dr. Kathleen Van Craenenbroeck
Collection Editors

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