G protein-coupled receptor heteromers are key players in substance use disorder

Abstract

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) represent the largest family of membrane proteins in the human genome. Physical association between two different GPCRs is linked to functional interactions which generates a novel entity, called heteromer, with specific ligand binding and signaling properties. Heteromerization is increasingly recognized to take place in the mesocorticolimbic pathway and to contribute to various aspects related to substance use disorder. This review focuses on heteromers identified in brain areas relevant to drug addiction. We report changes at the molecular and cellular levels that establish specific functional impact and highlight behavioral outcome in preclinical models. Finally, we briefly discuss selective targeting of native heteromers as an innovative therapeutic option.

Keywords: Addiction; Adenosine; Alcohol; Cannabinoid; Cocaine; Dopamine; G protein-coupled receptors; Heteromers; Opioid; Psychostimulant; Rodents; Substance use disorder.