Guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) are involved as modulators or transducers in various transmembrane signaling systems. G proteins are composed of 3 units; alpha, beta and gamma. The alpha chain contains the guanine nucleotide binding site. Palmitoylated. Palmitoylation occurs in the Golgi and participates in the localization of GNAQ to the plasma membrane. Belongs to the G-alpha family. G(q) subfamily.