Guanine nucleotide-binding protein G(z) subunit alpha (GNAZ)

Guanine nucleotide-binding protein G(z) subunit alpha (GNAZ) is a membrane-bound GTPase forming the alpha subunit of the heterotrimeric G(z) protein, linked to seven-transmembrane (7-TM) receptors. It mediates signal transduction in systems insensitive to pertussis toxin, and may play a role in the ionic balance within the cochlea. GNAZ acts by switching between inactive GDP-bound and active GTP-bound forms in response to GPCR activation, influencing downstream effectors such as adenylyl cyclase. Diseases such as night blindness, thrombocytopenia-absent radius syndrome, and certain cancers are associated with its altered function or expression

Other names

G protein subunit alpha zGNAZGz-alphaHG1HG(X) alpha chainGuanine nucleotide-binding protein G(z) subunit alphagz-alphaGuanine nucleotide binding protein (G protein), alpha z polypeptideHeterotrimeric guanine nucleotide-binding protein 1HTransducin alpha

Inhibition of adenylyl cyclase activity (leading to decreased cellular cAMP production); Signal transduction via heterotrimeric G protein pathways (G protein-coupled receptor activation); Pertussis toxin-insensitivity (unaffected by ADP-ribosylation by pertussis toxin)