Structure and dynamics of GPCR signaling complexes

Nat Struct Mol Biol. 2018 Jan;25(1):4-12. doi: 10.1038/s41594-017-0011-7. Epub 2018 Jan 8.

Abstract

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) relay numerous extracellular signals by triggering intracellular signaling through coupling with G proteins and arrestins. Recent breakthroughs in the structural determination of GPCRs and GPCR-transducer complexes represent important steps toward deciphering GPCR signal transduction at a molecular level. A full understanding of the molecular basis of GPCR-mediated signaling requires elucidation of the dynamics of receptors and their transducer complexes as well as their energy landscapes and conformational transition rates. Here, we summarize current insights into the structural plasticity of GPCR-G-protein and GPCR-arrestin complexes that underlies the regulation of the receptor's intracellular signaling profile.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Allosteric Site
  • Animals
  • Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy
  • GTP-Binding Proteins / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Ligands
  • Protein Binding
  • Protein Domains
  • Protein Structure, Secondary
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / chemistry*
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / physiology
  • Signal Transduction*
  • beta-Arrestins / chemistry*

Substances

  • Ligands
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled
  • beta-Arrestins
  • GTP-Binding Proteins