background:
Heterotrimeric G proteins function to relay information from cell surface receptors to intracellular effectors (1). Each of a very broad range of receptors specifically detects an extracellular stimulus (a photon, pheromone, odorant, hormone or neurotransmitter) while the effectors (e.g., adenyl cyclase), which act to generate one or more intracellular messengers, are less numerous. In mammals, G protein alpha, beta and gamma polypeptides are encoded by at least 16, 4 and 7 genes, respectively (2-5). Most interest in G proteins has been focused on their alpha subunits, since these proteins bind and hydrolyze GTP and most obviously regulate the activity of the best studied effectors. More recent evidence, however, has established an important regulatory role for the beta gamma subunits (6-8). The Gs subfamily of G alpha subunits includes two closely related proteins, Ga s and Ga olf, which respectively stimulate adenylate cyclase and mediate response to olfactory stimuli (9).
Function:
Guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) are involved as modulators or transducers in various transmembrane signaling systems. G(olf) alpha mediates signal transduction within the olfactory neuroepithelium and the basal ganglia. May be involved in some aspect of visual transduction, and in mediating the effect of one or more hormones/neurotransmitters.
Subunit:
G proteins are composed of 3 units; alpha, beta and gamma. The alpha chain contains the guanine nucleotide binding site.
Tissue Specificity:
Detected in olfactory neuroepithelium, brain, testis, and to a lower extent in retina, lung alveoli, spleen. Trace amounts where seen in kidney, adrenal gland and liver. Found to be expressed in all the insulinomas examined.
Similarity:
Belongs to the G-alpha family. G(s) subfamily.
Database links:
UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot: P31685.1
Important Note:
This product as supplied is intended for research use only, not for use in human, therapeutic or diagnostic applications.
|
|
