Which protein is associated with H2 receptors in the signaling pathway?

The protein associated with H2 receptors in the signaling pathway is the Gs protein. H2 receptors, which are part of the histamine receptor family, predominantly mediate gastric acid secretion in the stomach. Upon activation by histamine, these receptors stimulate adenylyl cyclase through the Gs protein, leading to an increase in cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels within the cell.

This process results in various downstream effects, such as the stimulation of proton pumps and increased gastric acid secretion, which is crucial for digestive processes. Understanding the role of Gs in this context helps in grasping how certain medications (like H2 receptor antagonists) can affect stomach acid production and clinical conditions related to gastric acid secretion.