Proteostasis Maintenance of Cys-Loop Receptors

The Cys-loop receptors play prominent roles in the nervous system. They include gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptors, nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, 5-hydroxytryptamine type-3 receptors, and glycine receptors. Proteostasis represents an optimal state of the cellular proteome in normal physiology. The proteostasis network regulates the folding, assembly, degradation, and trafficking of the Cys-loop receptors, ensuring their efficient functional cell surface expressions. Here, we summarize current advances about the protein biogenesis process of the Cys-loop receptors. Because operating on individual biogenesis steps influences the receptor cell surface level, manipulating the proteostasis network components can regulate the function of the receptors, representing an emerging therapeutic strategy for corresponding channelopathies.