Transduction of receptor signals by ß-arrestins

RJ Lefkowitz, SK Shenoy - science, 2005 - science.org
RJ Lefkowitz, SK Shenoy
science, 2005science.org
The transmission of extracellular signals to the interior of the cell is a function of plasma
membrane receptors, of which the seven transmembrane receptor family is by far the largest
and most versatile. Classically, these receptors stimulate heterotrimeric G proteins, which
control rates of generation of diffusible second messengers and entry of ions at the plasma
membrane. Recent evidence, however, indicates another previously unappreciated strategy
used by the receptors to regulate intracellular signaling pathways. They direct the …
The transmission of extracellular signals to the interior of the cell is a function of plasma membrane receptors, of which the seven transmembrane receptor family is by far the largest and most versatile. Classically, these receptors stimulate heterotrimeric G proteins, which control rates of generation of diffusible second messengers and entry of ions at the plasma membrane. Recent evidence, however, indicates another previously unappreciated strategy used by the receptors to regulate intracellular signaling pathways. They direct the recruitment, activation, and scaffolding of cytoplasmic signaling complexes via two multifunctional adaptor and transducer molecules, β-arrestins 1 and 2. This mechanism regulates aspects of cell motility, chemotaxis, apoptosis, and likely other cellular functions through a rapidly expanding list of signaling pathways.
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