The asymmetric/symmetric activation of GPCR dimers as a possible mechanistic rationale for multiple signalling pathways.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) represent the major target for drug development. Although these receptors can activate their cognate G-proteins in a monomeric form, it is now recognized that they can assemble into dimers, or larger oligomers. However, the functional consequences of such receptor assembly remain elusive. Recent data revealed an 'asymmetric' organization of some dimers when activating heterotrimeric G-proteins, while a symmetric organization may be required for the activation of other signalling pathways. Here we describe a mathematical model taking these latest ideas into consideration, and report on the expected consequences of the activation of different signalling pathways. This model helps clarify data already published, and will certainly be helpful to further explain the functional significance of GPCR oligomerization. It may help develop more specific drugs targeting a specific signalling cascade.
Rovira
Xavier
X
Laboratory of Systems Pharmacology and Bioinformatics, Institut de Neurociències and Unitat de Bioestadística, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain.
Pin
Jean-Philippe
JP
Giraldo
Jesús
J
D019281:Dimerization; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems; D015195:Drug Design; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D043562:Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000187:drug effects
D043562:Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled