GNAI3 : G protein subunit alpha i3
Description
The GNAI3 (G protein subunit alpha i3) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 1.
The GNAI3 gene provides instructions for making the inhibitory alpha subunit of a G protein complex. G proteins are made up of three subunits: alpha, beta, and gamma. Through signal transduction, G proteins relay information from outside the cell to inside the cell. Specifically, G proteins with the GNAI3 alpha subunit inhibit the enzyme adenylyl cyclase, a critical chemical messenger within cells. G protein signaling affects many cellular activities, including cell growth, division, and specialization. Research suggests that G protein signaling involving the GNAI3 alpha subunit contributes to the development of the first and second pharyngeal arches, which later form jawbones, facial muscles, middle ear bones, ear canals, outer ears, and related tissues.
The GNAI3 gene encodes for the inhibitory alpha subunit of a guanine nucleotide-binding protein (G protein). These proteins act as transducers downstream of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in various signaling cascades. The alpha subunit, containing the guanine nucleotide binding site, cycles between an active, GTP-bound state and an inactive, GDP-bound state. Upon GPCR activation, GDP is released, and GTP binds, activating the alpha subunit. The subunit's intrinsic GTPase activity converts GTP to GDP, terminating the signal. The activation and inactivation processes are regulated by multiple proteins. GNAI3 inhibits adenylate cyclase activity, reducing intracellular cAMP levels, and stimulates receptor-regulated K(+) channels. The GTP-bound form prevents RGS14 from associating with centrosomes, facilitating its translocation from the cytoplasm to the plasma membrane. GNAI3 may also play a role in cell division.
GNAI3 is also known as 87U6, ARCND1, ARCODS, HG1A.
