G Protein-Coupled Peripheral Receptor (GPCR)

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a vast and diverse family of cell surface receptors that play a central role in transducing extracellular signals into intracellular responses. They are also known as seven-transmembrane (7TM) receptors due to their characteristic structure, which spans the cell membrane seven times. GPCRs respond to a wide variety of stimuli, including hormones, neurotransmitters, chemokines, odorants, light-sensitive compounds, and more. Their accessibility at cell surfaces combined with diverse signaling pathways makes them highly attractive pharmacological targets—about 35% of prescription drugs target GPCRs directly or indirectly.

Other names

Seven-Transmembrane Receptor7TM Receptor

Modulation of downstream effectors such as adenylyl cyclase or phospholipase C via G protein activation.