Summary
Seven-transmembrane receptors that activate G proteins to generate second messengers such as cAMP.
In depth
A ligand changes the receptor shape so it exchanges GDP for GTP on the associated G protein, which splits into alpha and beta-gamma subunits that act on effectors such as adenylyl cyclase or phospholipase C. GTP hydrolysis switches the signal off.
GPCRs are the largest receptor family and the target of about a third of drugs. They detect light, odours, hormones and neurotransmitters.
Frequently asked questions
What is G Protein-Coupled Receptors?
Seven-transmembrane receptors that activate G proteins to generate second messengers such as cAMP.
Which area of biology covers G Protein-Coupled Receptors, and how advanced is it?
G Protein-Coupled Receptors is one of the 52 topics in Cell Biology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Cell Signalling, Receptor Tyrosine Kinases, Second Messengers.
Can you give an example of G Protein-Coupled Receptors?
Rhodopsin in the retina is a GPCR; cholera toxin keeps a G protein permanently active, causing severe diarrhoea.
What should I learn before G Protein-Coupled Receptors?
Work through the Beginner topics in Cell Biology first, such as Cell Theory, Prokaryotic Cell, Eukaryotic Cell, then return to G Protein-Coupled Receptors. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to G Protein-Coupled Receptors?
The closest topics to G Protein-Coupled Receptors are Cell Signalling, Receptor Tyrosine Kinases, Second Messengers, Cyclin-Dependent Kinases. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand G Protein-Coupled Receptors?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for G Protein-Coupled Receptors. To practise the whole of Cell Biology, use the Cell Biology quiz.
How is G Protein-Coupled Receptors different from Cell Signalling?
G Protein-Coupled Receptors: Seven-transmembrane receptors that activate G proteins to generate second messengers such as cAMP. Cell Signalling: Cells detect extracellular ligands with receptors and convert them into responses through signal transduction pathways. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study G Protein-Coupled Receptors step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Cell Signalling and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Cell Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.