Signal transducing GTP-binding proteins in olfaction

Abstract

1. Several members of the family of heterotrimeric signal transducing GTP-binding proteins have been identified in the olfactory epithelium of vertebrates by biochemical and molecular cloning techniques. 2. Biochemical and electrophysiological evidence indicates that one or more GTP-binding proteins mediate many olfactory responses by coupling stimulus receptors to second messenger systems. 3. Although GTP-binding proteins may function in additional transduction events, a novel GTP-binding protein, expressed only in olfactory neurons, may mediate stimulus activation of adenylate cyclase in olfactory cilia.