Functions and Regulatory Mechanisms of Gq-Signaling Pathways

Gq family members of heterotrimeric G protein activate beta isoforms of phospholipase C that hydrolyzes phosphatidylinositol phosphate to diacylglycerol and inositol trisphosphate, leading to the protein kinase C activation and intracellular Ca2+ mobilization, respectively. To understand the functions and regulatory mechanisms of Gq-signaling pathways, we first introduce the G alpha q-interacting proteins, which function as the effectors and the modulators of Gq. Next, we describe the Pasteurella multocida toxin and YM-254890, which are useful tools to investigate Gq signaling as activator and inhibitor, respectively. Finally, we discuss the physiological function of Gq in developmental brain, especially in neural progenitor cells. Copyright (C) 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel