RIC-8B Activators

RIC-8B, or Resistance To Inhibitors of Cholinesterase 8 Homolog B, is a protein in humans that is encoded by the RIC8B gene. This protein is part of the RIC-8 family, which also includes RIC-8A. These proteins are known as guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) for certain types of G proteins.G proteins are critical regulators of intracellular signaling, and GEFs like RIC-8B facilitate their activation by promoting the exchange of GDP for GTP. While RIC-8A functions as a GEF for Gαi and Gαq types, RIC-8B specifically interacts with Gαs and Gα12/13 typesG protein pathways influence numerous biological events, including cell growth, differentiation, and sensory perception.

In the context of neurobiology, studies have suggested the involvement of RIC-8B in the regulation of synaptic transmission and plasticity. This is based on the essential role of G protein signaling in these processes.Mutations or dysregulation of G protein pathways can contribute to various diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and metabolic diseases. Therefore, understanding the specific role and regulation of RIC-8B could provide important insights into G protein signaling and its implications in health and disease.