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Preferential Assembly of G-αβγ Complexes Directed by the γ Subunits

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GPCR Signalling Complexes – Synthesis, Assembly, Trafficking and Specificity

Part of the book series: Subcellular Biochemistry ((SCBI,volume 63))

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Abstract

Assembly of the G-αβγ heterotrimer is required for receptor signaling. Although much has been learned about the assembly process itself, the identities of the G-αβγ combinations that actually exist in physiological setting are largely unknown. Moreover, there is uncertainty regarding whether the individual subunits associate by a random process, or combine by a regulated process to form quasi-stable G-αβγ complexes. In this chapter, we will focus on emerging genetic ­evidence that supports the latter model. Specifically, we will discuss how use of gene targeted mice has revealed preferential assembly of the striatal-specific Gαolfβ2γ7 complex occurs by a sequential process that is directed by the γ7 subunit. The existence of specific G-αβγ complexes responsible for transducing the signals from different receptors may have profound implications by providing a possible explanation for biased agonism.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, 100 N. Academy Ave, Danville, PA, USA

    Janet D. Robishaw Ph.D.

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  1. Janet D. Robishaw Ph.D.
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Correspondence to Janet D. Robishaw Ph.D. .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, College Street 5968, Halifax, B3H 4R2, Nova Scotia, Canada

    Denis J. Dupré

  2. , Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Promenade Sir William Osler 3655, Montreal, H3G 1Y6, Québec, Canada

    Terence E. Hébert

  3. Institut Cochin, Rue Méchain 22, Paris, 75014, France

    Ralf Jockers

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Robishaw, J.D. (2012). Preferential Assembly of G-αβγ Complexes Directed by the γ Subunits. In: Dupré, D., Hébert, T., Jockers, R. (eds) GPCR Signalling Complexes – Synthesis, Assembly, Trafficking and Specificity. Subcellular Biochemistry, vol 63. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-4765-4_10

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