Regulation of post-golgi traf fic of G protein-coupled receptors

Anterograde traf ficking of newly synthesized G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) from the endoplasmic reticulum to the cell surface represents a crucial checkpoint in controlling the amount of the functional receptors at the cell surface and the strength of signaling initiated by the receptors. In contrast to the extensively studied, well-understood endocytic and recycling pathways, the molecular mechanisms underlying the cell-surface targeting of the receptors remain poorly de fined. In this chapter, I will discuss current advances in understanding post-Golgi transport of GPCRs by focusing on speci fic motifs or sequences that may function as sorting signals regulating export from the Golgi and subsequent transport to the plasma membrane of GPCRs.