Broad-spectrum amino acid-sensing class C G-protein coupled receptors: molecular mechanisms, physiological significance and options for drug development.

In this article, we consider the molecular mechanisms that underlie broad-spectrum amino acid sensing by a discrete subgroup of class C G-protein-coupled receptors that includes the calcium-sensing receptor, GPRC6A and heterodimers composed of two closely related receptor subunits, T1R(1) and T1R(3). We consider their physiological significance highlighting their diverse spectrum of cellular responses and the phenotypes of global and conditional knock-out mice. In addition, we consider strategies for the development of new drugs that target these receptors. 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.