G protein-coupled receptors: what a difference a 'partner' makes

Roux, B. T. and Cottrell, G. S. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9098-7627 (2014) G protein-coupled receptors: what a difference a 'partner' makes. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 15 (1). pp. 1112-1142. ISSN 1422-0067 doi: 10.3390/ijms15011112

Abstract/Summary

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are important cell signaling mediators, involved in essential physiological processes. GPCRs respond to a wide variety of ligands from light to large macromolecules, including hormones and small peptides. Unfortunately, mutations and dysregulation of GPCRs that induce a loss of function or alter expression can lead to disorders that are sometimes lethal. Therefore, the expression, trafficking, signaling and desensitization of GPCRs must be tightly regulated by different cellular systems to prevent disease. Although there is substantial knowledge regarding the mechanisms that regulate the desensitization and down-regulation of GPCRs, less is known about the mechanisms that regulate the trafficking and cell-surface expression of newly synthesized GPCRs. More recently, there is accumulating evidence that suggests certain GPCRs are able to interact with specific proteins that can completely change their fate and function. These interactions add on another level of regulation and flexibility between different tissue/cell-types. Here, we review some of the main interacting proteins of GPCRs. A greater understanding of the mechanisms regulating their interactions may lead to the discovery of new drug targets for therapy.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://reading-clone.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/38630
Item Type	Article
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Life Sciences > School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy > School of Pharmacy
Publisher	MDPI
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