Inherited endocrine diseases involving G proteins and G protein-coupled receptors

Naturally occurring mutations in the G protein Gs-alpha subunit and in a number of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been identified in human diseases. Loss-of-function mutations in GPCRs for various hormones lead to hormone resistance manifest as hypofunction of the gland expressing the affected GPCR. Conversely, GPCR gain-of-function mutations lead to hormone-independent activation and hyperfunction of the involved gland. Our laboratory has focused on the extracellular calcium-sensing GPCR (CaR) expressed primarily, but not exclusively, in parathyroid glands and kidney. Loss-of-function CaR mutations lead to a form of hyperparathyroidism, an apparent exception to the general pattern described above, but in fact reflecting resistance to the normal inhibition of parathyroid hormone secretion by the 'hormone' agonist, extracellular Ca2+. CaR gain-of function-mutations cause autosomal dominant hypocalcemia due to activation of the receptor at subphysiologic concentrations of serum Ca2+, leading to 'inappropriate' inhibition of parathyroid hormone secretion. I will describe our recent work that helps inform design of novel therapeutics targeting this important GPCR.