G protein trafficking

Subcell Biochem. 2012:63:193-223. doi: 10.1007/978-94-007-4765-4_11.

Abstract

The classical view of heterotrimeric G protein signaling places G -proteins at the cytoplasmic surface of the cell's plasma membrane where they are activated by an appropriate G protein-coupled receptor. Once activated, the GTP-bound Gα and the free Gβγ are able to regulate plasma membrane-localized effectors, such as adenylyl cyclase, phospholipase C-β, RhoGEFs and ion channels. Hydrolysis of GTP by the Gα subunit returns the G protein to the inactive Gαβγ heterotrimer. Although all of these events in the G protein cycle can be restricted to the cytoplasmic surface of the plasma membrane, G protein localization is dynamic. Thus, it has become increasingly clear that G proteins are able to move to diverse subcellular locations where they perform non-canonical signaling functions. This chapter will highlight our current understanding of trafficking pathways that target newly synthesized G proteins to the plasma membrane, activation-induced and reversible translocation of G proteins from the plasma membrane to intracellular locations, and constitutive trafficking of G proteins.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism*
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Protein Transport
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled