The G proteins are a family of structurally homologous, plasma membrane-associated guanine-nucleotide-binding proteins. These proteins play an integral role in the tra- duction of extracellular signals through second messenger systems. As such, G proteins affect a wide variety of intra cellular biochemical reactions by regulating the concent- tion of second messengers in cells. G proteins are heterotrimeric, consisting of a, p, and y polypeptide chains, with G protein specificity largely det- mined by the a-subunit, Molecular cloning of G protein s- units has revealed 23 distinct a-subunits,...

Combining the cutting-edge insights of leading basic and clinical investigators, G Protein Methods and Protocols provides both critical reviews and detailed protocols for studying the medical role played by G proteins and cellular signaling in psychiatric and neurological disease. The mental and neurological disorders covered range from Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia to manic depression, drug addiction, and mood and anxiety disorders.