The difference between ion channels and G proteins

G Proteins are targeted by drugs that need a sustained, systemic effect across multiple cellular processes. Drugs bind to the G Protein-Coupled Receptor (GPCR), which then dictates the G protein's activation.

Examples: Beta-blockers (block $\beta$-adrenergic GPCRs), antihistamines, many antipsychotics, and antidepressants. GPCRs are the target of nearly one-third of all FDA-approved drugs.

👩‍⚕️ Answering the Patient Question

The most appropriate response should be empathetic, reassuring, and clearly explain the concepts of heredity, polygenic risk, and the gene-environment interaction without giving a definitive "yes" or "no."

"My grandmother has a mental illness. I have the same genes as her. Will I also get the same mental illness?"

Suggested Response:

"That is a very important and understandable question. It's natural to worry when you see a mental illness in your family, but I want to reassure you: having the same genes as your grandmother does not mean you will definitely develop the same illness.

Here is what we know about mental illness:

It’s about Predisposition, Not Destiny: Most mental illnesses, like depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, are not caused by a single 'bad' gene. Instead, they are polygenic, meaning they are influenced by hundreds of different genes, each contributing only a very small amount to your overall risk. You and your grandmother share many of those genes, which does give you a genetic predisposition, or an increased risk, for the illness.

Genes Load the Gun, but Environment Pulls the Trigger: Your genes are only one piece of the puzzle. The illness is caused by a complex interaction between those genes and environmental factors (what we call the diathesis-stress model). The environment includes things like:

Sample Answer

| | Duration of Effect | Short-lived (milliseconds). The channel rapidly inactivates or closes. | Longer-lasting (seconds to minutes). The effect persists as long as the second messengers are present. | | Example End Effect | Generation of an action potential (nerve impulse); muscle contraction. | Changes in gene expression, protein synthesis, cell growth, and metabolism. |

💊 Targets of Medications

Ion Channels