Gα and Gα: Versatility in Physiology and Pathology.

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), as the largest family of receptors in the human body, are involved in the pathological mechanisms of many diseases. Heterotrimeric G proteins represent the main molecular switch and receive cell surface signals from activated GPCRs. Growing evidence suggests that Gα subfamily (Gα)-mediated signaling plays a crucial role in cellular function and various pathological processes. The current research on the physiological and pathological function of Gα is constantly expanding, Changes in the expression levels of Gα have been found in a wide range of human diseases. However, the mechanistic research on Gα is scattered. This review briefly describes the structural sequences of the Gα isoforms and introduces the coupling of GPCRs and non-GPCRs to Gα. The effects of Gα on RhoA and other signaling pathways and their roles in cell proliferation, migration, and immune cell function, are discussed. Finally, we focus on the pathological impacts of Gα in cancer, inflammation, metabolic diseases, fibrotic diseases, and circulatory disorders are brought to focus.