Regulator of G-protein signaling 18 (RGS18)

Regulator of G-protein signaling 18 is a cytoplasmic regulatory protein with a conserved RGS domain that specifically accelerates GTP hydrolysis by G-protein alpha subunits, thereby terminating GPCR-driven signaling. RGS18 is most abundantly expressed in platelets and megakaryocytes, playing a crucial role in their generation and functional responsiveness. Genetically, variants that decrease RGS18 expression predispose to cardiovascular risk through enhanced platelet activation and atherosclerosis. RGS18 interacts with G(i) alpha subunits and displays specificity for certain GPCR pathways, making it an attractive—if currently unapproved—target for therapeutic intervention in cardiovascular and hematologic diseases. Notably, confusion with RGS13 in some sources is incorrect; RGS13 is a distinct protein and should not be considered an alias for RGS18.

Other names

RGS18Regulator of G-protein signaling 18regulator of G-protein signalling 18

For potential drugs, inhibition of RGS18 would be expected to enhance GPCR signaling, particularly in tissues where RGS18 is highly expressed (like platelets and megakaryocytes), possibly in a pathway- and tissue-specific manner