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7-Transmembrane receptors (7-TM receptors), also known as G-protein-coupled receptors, or GPCRs, are integral membrane proteins that contain seven membrane-spanning helices. As the name suggests they are coupled to heterotrimeric G proteins on the intracellular side of the membrane. Upon ligand binding, the GPCR undergoes a conformational change which is transmitted to the G protein causing activation. Further signal transduction depends on the type of G protein.
7-TM receptors are activated by a wide variety of ligands including light, olfactory stimulants, peptides, hormones and neurotransmitters. They are grouped into 6 classes based on sequence homology and functional similarity:
The human genome encodes roughly 350 7-TM receptors, of which approximately 150 of these have an unknown function. They comprise the largest family of receptors in the human genome and because of their large number, widespread distribution and important roles in cell physiology and biochemistry, they play an important role in medicine.
Diseases involving mutations of 7-TM receptors are relatively rare, however disorders which involve antibodies directed against 7-TM receptors are more common. Typically disease can be caused by:
7-TM receptors are the target of around half of all modern medicinal drugs. Their expression on the cell surface makes them readily accessible to hydrophilic drugs and their non-uniform expression provides selectivity in activating or blocking physiological events. Agonists and antagonists of 7-TM receptors are used in the treatment of disease in every organ system.