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G protein-Coupled Receptors definitions

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  • GPCR
    Integral membrane protein with seven transmembrane alpha helices, mediating extracellular signal transduction via G proteins.
  • Transmembrane Alpha Helix
    Segment of protein spanning the membrane, forming part of the structural core in GPCRs.
  • N-terminal
    Extracellular end of a protein, marking the start of the amino acid sequence in GPCRs.
  • C-terminal
    Intracellular end of a protein, marking the finish of the amino acid sequence in GPCRs.
  • G Protein
    Heterotrimeric, lipid-linked intracellular protein, switching between active and inactive states by binding GTP or GDP.
  • Alpha Subunit
    Component of G protein that dissociates upon activation and interacts with effector enzymes.
  • Beta-Gamma Subunit
    Paired components of G protein remaining together after alpha subunit dissociation.
  • Heterotrimeric Protein
    Protein complex composed of three distinct subunits, as seen in G proteins associated with GPCRs.
  • GTP
    High-energy nucleotide enabling G protein activation, structurally similar to ATP.
  • GDP
    Low-energy nucleotide resulting from GTP hydrolysis, marking the inactive state of G proteins.
  • Effector Enzyme
    Membrane-bound enzyme activated by G protein alpha subunit, responsible for generating secondary messengers.
  • Secondary Messenger
    Intracellular molecule produced by effector enzymes, triggering downstream cellular responses.
  • Stimulatory G Protein
    Type of G protein (Gs) enhancing effector enzyme activity, increasing secondary messenger production.
  • Inhibitory G Protein
    Type of G protein (Gi) reducing effector enzyme activity, decreasing secondary messenger production.
  • Signal Transduction Pathway
    Sequence of molecular events initiated by extracellular signals, resulting in specific cellular responses.