Gq-coupled receptors in autoimmunity

Heterotrimeric g proteins can be divided into gi,gs,gq/11,and g12/13 subfamilies according to their α subunits. the main function of g proteins is transducing signals from g protein coupled receptors (gpcrs),a family of seven transmembrane receptors. in recent years,studies have demonstrated that gpcrs interact with gq,a member of the gq/11 subfamily of g proteins. this interaction facilitates the vital role of this family of proteins in immune regulation and autoimmunity,particularly for gαq,which is considered the functional α subunit of gq protein. therefore,understanding the mechanisms through which gq-coupled receptors control autoreactive lymphocytes is critical and may provide insights into the treatment of autoimmune disorders. in this review,we summarize recent advances in studies of the role of gq-coupled receptors in autoimmunity,with a focus on their pathologic role and downstream signaling. © 2016 lu zhang and guixiu shi.