Guanine nucleotide-binding protein subunit alpha-q (GNAQ) and Guanine nucleotide-binding protein subunit alpha-11 (GNA11) (GNAQ, GNA11)

GNAQ and GNA11 encode two closely related alpha subunits of heterotrimeric G proteins (Gαq and Gα11), responsible for transducing signals from G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) to intracellular effectors, such as phospholipase C-beta. Mutation of GNAQ or GNA11, especially at codons Q209 and R183, leads to constitutive activation of these subunits, resulting in persistent signaling and oncogenic transformation, particularly in uveal melanoma and other melanocytic neoplasms. Both proteins play essential roles in normal cellular physiology including regulation of calcium signaling, cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis.

Other names

GNAQ: G protein subunit alpha qGNAQ: GαqGNA11: G protein subunit alpha 11GNA11: Gα11Collectively: Gq class alpha subunitsCollectively: Gαq/11

Inhibition of downstream signaling cascades (MAPK/ERK, PKC, etc.) that become constitutively active in presence of GNAQ/GNA11 mutations. Attempts to directly target mutated Gαq/11 function, often via interfering in GPCR signaling or phospholipase C-beta activation.