Guanine nucleotide-binding protein G(i) subunit alpha-1, Adenylate cyclase-inhibiting G alpha protein, GNAI1, Gi.
Guanine nucleotide-binding protein G(i) subunit alpha-1, Adenylate cyclase-inhibiting G alpha protein, GNAI1, Gi.
Guanine Nucleotide Binding Protein Alpha Inhibiting Activity 1 (GNAI1) is a protein encoded by the GNAI1 gene in humans. This protein is a part of the G protein family, which plays a crucial role in signal transduction by interacting with G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The GNAI1 protein is specifically involved in inhibitory signaling pathways, where it functions to inhibit adenylate cyclase activity, thereby reducing the levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP) within the cell .
GNAI1 is a heterotrimeric G protein composed of three subunits: alpha, beta, and gamma. The alpha subunit, which is encoded by the GNAI1 gene, binds guanine nucleotides (GTP and GDP) and possesses intrinsic GTPase activity. This subunit alternates between an active GTP-bound state and an inactive GDP-bound state. Upon activation by a GPCR, the alpha subunit releases GDP and binds GTP, leading to the dissociation of the G protein into its alpha and beta-gamma subunits. The alpha subunit then interacts with downstream effectors to propagate the signal .
The primary function of GNAI1 is to inhibit adenylate cyclase, an enzyme responsible for converting ATP to cAMP. By inhibiting adenylate cyclase, GNAI1 reduces the production of cAMP, a secondary messenger involved in various cellular processes such as metabolism, gene transcription, and cell growth. This inhibitory action is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis and regulating physiological responses to external stimuli .
Mutations or dysregulation of the GNAI1 gene can lead to various disorders. For instance, alterations in GNAI1 have been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by hypotonia, impaired speech, and behavioral abnormalities. Additionally, GNAI1 has been implicated in certain cancers and other diseases where aberrant signaling pathways play a role .
Recombinant GNAI1 refers to the protein produced through recombinant DNA technology, where the GNAI1 gene is cloned and expressed in a suitable host system, such as bacteria or mammalian cells. This allows for the production of large quantities of the protein for research and therapeutic purposes. Recombinant GNAI1 is used in various studies to understand its structure, function, and role in cellular signaling pathways .