Functional consequences of 7TM receptor dimerization

Eur J Pharm Sci. 2004 Dec;23(4-5):301-17. doi: 10.1016/j.ejps.2004.08.004.

Abstract

7TM receptors work as signaling platforms that activate multiple signalling systems at the intracellular face of the plasma membrane. It is an emerging concept that 7TM receptors form homo- and hetero-dimers or -oligomers in vitro and in vivo. Numerous studies suggest dimerization is important for receptor function including agonist/antagonist affinity, efficacy, trafficking, and specificity of signal transduction, yet it remains unknown whether dimerization is a prerequisite for 7TM receptor signaling. The current review provides an overview of the biochemical support for 7TM homodimerization, followed by a discussion of the characteristics of homodimerization, with focus on dimer organization, and the functional consequences of dimerization. Heterodimerization will not generally be discussed in this review although we have included a few examples to illustrate specific points, and a table that summarises the current literature on this subject.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Dimerization
  • Humans
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / chemistry*
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / genetics
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / metabolism*
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / physiology

Substances

  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled
  • seven-transmembrane G-protein-coupled receptor