RESUMO
G protein- coupled receptors (GPCRs), also known as seven- transmembrane domain receptors, constitute the largest superfamily of cell surface receptors. By coupling to heterotrimeric G proteins, arrestins and other signaling molecules, GPCRs modulate diverse signal transduction pathways under physiological and pathological conditions. Recent studies have revealed crucial roles of GPCRs in tumorigenesis and development of cancer metastasis. This review summarizes roles of GPCRs, particularly the roles of those coupled to chemokines, prostaglandin, lysophosphatidic acid, endothelin, catecholamine and angiotensin in proliferation, invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis of hepatoma cells and development of hepatocellular carcinoma. The potential of GPCRs- based therapeutics being used for hepatocellular carcinoma is also highlighted.