RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 G Protein–Coupled Receptors in Child Development, Growth, and Maturation JF Science Signaling JO Sci. Signal. FD American Association for the Advancement of Science SP re7 OP re7 DO 10.1126/scisignal.3143re7 VO 3 IS 143 A1 Latronico, Ana Claudia A1 Hochberg, Ze’ev YR 2010 UL http://stke.sciencemag.org/content/3/143/re7.abstract AB G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a large family of cell membrane receptors that affect embryogenesis, development, and child physiology, and they are targets for approved drugs and those still in development. The sensitivity of GPCRs to their respective extracellular hormones, neurotransmitters, and environmental stimulants, as well as their interaction with other receptors and intracellular signaling proteins (such as receptor activity–modifying proteins), contribute to variations in child development, growth, and maturation. Here, we summarize current knowledge about the mechanisms of activation (in either the presence or absence of ligands) that lead to the sensitivities of GPCRs and their respective effects as seen throughout human developmental and maturational phases.