New roles for G-protein beta gamma-dimers in transmembrane signalling.

Clapham, D E; Neer, E J · Nature · 1993

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

When a membrane-bound receptor acts on a G protein, the GTP-binding or G alpha subunit dissociates from the G beta gamma dimer. Until recently, the G alpha subunit alone was thought to act on the enzymes and ion channels controlled by these proteins. Newer evidence indicates that the G beta gamma dimer also plays a major part in signal transmission, enhancing the complexity of the possible interactions between the G proteins and their targets.

Medical subject headings