The expanding roles of Gβγ subunits in G protein-coupled receptor signaling and drug action

Pharmacol Rev. 2013 Feb 13;65(2):545-77. doi: 10.1124/pr.111.005603. Print 2013 Apr.

Abstract

Gβγ subunits from heterotrimeric G proteins perform a vast array of functions in cells with respect to signaling, often independently as well as in concert with Gα subunits. However, the eponymous term "Gβγ" does not do justice to the fact that 5 Gβ and 12 Gγ isoforms have evolved in mammals to serve much broader roles beyond their canonical roles in cellular signaling. We explore the phylogenetic diversity of Gβγ subunits with a view toward understanding these expanded roles in different cellular organelles. We suggest that the particular content of distinct Gβγ subunits regulates cellular activity, and that the granularity of individual Gβ and Gγ action is only beginning to be understood. Given the therapeutic potential of targeting Gβγ action, this larger view serves as a prelude to more specific development of drugs aimed at individual isoforms.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Binding Sites
  • Drug Discovery
  • GTP-Binding Protein beta Subunits / chemistry
  • GTP-Binding Protein beta Subunits / genetics
  • GTP-Binding Protein beta Subunits / metabolism
  • GTP-Binding Protein beta Subunits / physiology*
  • GTP-Binding Protein gamma Subunits / chemistry
  • GTP-Binding Protein gamma Subunits / genetics
  • GTP-Binding Protein gamma Subunits / metabolism
  • GTP-Binding Protein gamma Subunits / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Models, Molecular
  • Organelles / drug effects
  • Organelles / metabolism
  • Phylogeny
  • Signal Transduction* / drug effects
  • Small Molecule Libraries* / pharmacology
  • Species Specificity

Substances

  • G-protein Beta gamma
  • GTP-Binding Protein beta Subunits
  • GTP-Binding Protein gamma Subunits
  • Small Molecule Libraries