Trimeric G protein-dependent signaling by Frizzled receptors in animal development

Front Biosci. 2008 May 1:13:4740-55. doi: 10.2741/3036.

Abstract

Receptors of the Frizzled family transduce important signals during animal development and are conserved from sponges to humans. Frizzled receptors belong to the superfamily of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), but until recently were considered G protein-independent in their signaling. In the present article we review the extensive knowledge demonstrating the functions of trimeric G proteins in Frizzled signal transduction in vertebrates and lower animals. Other structural and functional similarities of Frizzled receptors and the GPCRs are also discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Drosophila / growth & development
  • Frizzled Receptors / physiology*
  • Heterotrimeric GTP-Binding Proteins / physiology*
  • Ion Channels / physiology
  • Nematoda / growth & development
  • Sea Urchins / growth & development
  • Signal Transduction
  • Vertebrates / physiology*
  • beta Catenin / physiology

Substances

  • Frizzled Receptors
  • Ion Channels
  • beta Catenin
  • Heterotrimeric GTP-Binding Proteins