Knowledge Base

G protein-coupled receptors

The name of these receptors is derived from their coupling with G proteins, and because they pass through the cell membrane seven times. As they are involved in many diseases, these receptors are the target of approximately 34% of all modern medicinal drugs. GPCRs in taste cells mediate the release of gustducin (a G protein associated with taste) in response to bitter-, umami- and sweet-tasting substances.