Gq-Coupled Receptors in Autoimmunity

J Immunol Res. 2016:2016:3969023. doi: 10.1155/2016/3969023. Epub 2016 Jan 17.

Abstract

Heterotrimeric G proteins can be divided into Gi, Gs, Gq/11, and G12/13 subfamilies according to their α subunits. The main function of G proteins is transducing signals from G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), a family of seven transmembrane receptors. In recent years, studies have demonstrated that GPCRs interact with Gq, a member of the Gq/11 subfamily of G proteins. This interaction facilitates the vital role of this family of proteins in immune regulation and autoimmunity, particularly for Gαq, which is considered the functional α subunit of Gq protein. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms through which Gq-coupled receptors control autoreactive lymphocytes is critical and may provide insights into the treatment of autoimmune disorders. In this review, we summarize recent advances in studies of the role of Gq-coupled receptors in autoimmunity, with a focus on their pathologic role and downstream signaling.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autoimmunity*
  • Cell Movement
  • Dendritic Cells / physiology
  • GTP-Binding Protein alpha Subunits, Gq-G11 / classification
  • GTP-Binding Protein alpha Subunits, Gq-G11 / immunology*
  • GTP-Binding Protein alpha Subunits, Gq-G11 / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Monocytes / physiology
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes / metabolism

Substances

  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled
  • GTP-Binding Protein alpha Subunits, Gq-G11