Regulator of G protein signaling 21 (RGS21)

Regulator of G protein signaling 21 (RGS21) is a member of the RGS protein family, which function as GTPase-activating proteins for G protein alpha subunits. RGS21 is the smallest member of this family and is selectively expressed in taste bud sensory cells and airway epithelial cells. It modulates signal transduction by accelerating GTP hydrolysis on Gα subunits, thereby terminating the signaling initiated by G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs)—especially those involved in bitter and sweet taste perception. RGS21 binds the G protein alpha subunit gustducin and regulates the duration and intensity of taste and possibly airway epithelial signaling responses. Dysregulation or alteration of RGS21 function may be implicated in taste disorders and other sensory or airway epithelial processes

Other names

RGS21regulator of G-protein signaling 21regulator of G-protein signalling 21Rgs21 protein (rat)LOC102551739 (rat)I79_005244 (mouse)

Drugs would act by modulating GTPase activity of Gα subunits—either inhibiting or enhancing RGS21 function, thus altering signal transduction downstream of GPCRs