DEFINITION
Gs protein (Gαs) is the stimulatory α-subunit of the heterotrimeric G protein family. When a class B G-protein-coupled receptor such as GLP-1R or GIPR is activated, Gαs dissociates from the βγ subunits and stimulates membrane-bound adenylyl cyclase, elevating intracellular cyclic AMP.
Elevated cAMP activates protein kinase A and EPAC2, driving downstream phosphorylation and exocytotic events. Gαs coupling is the canonical signalling arm of incretin receptors — both native and pharmacological.
WHY IT MATTERS
Gαs coupling is the foundational signal-transduction step for every GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist.
RELATED
Compounds