G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].OGR1 is expressed in ovarian cancer cell lines and also in spleen, testis, small intestine, peripheral blood leukocytes, brain, heart, lung,placenta and kidney. Expression has not been found in thymus, prostate,ovary, colon, liver, skeletal muscle or pancreas [].
5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) or serotonin, is a neurotransmitter that it is primarily found in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, platelets, and in the central nervous system (CNS). It is implicated in a vast array of physiological and pathophysiological pathways. Receptors for 5-HT mediate both excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission, and modulate the release of many neurotransmitters including glutamate, GABA, dopamine, epinephrine/norepinephrine, and acetylcholine, as well as many hormones, including oxytocin, prolactin, vasopressin and cortisol. In the CNS, 5-HT receptors can influence various neurological processes, such as aggression, anxiety and appetite and, as a, result are the target of a variety of pharmaceutical drugs, including many antidepressants, antipsychotics and anorectics []. The 5-HT receptors are grouped into a number of distinct subtypes, classified according to their antagonist susceptibilities and their affinities for 5-HT. With the exception of the 5-HT3 receptor, which is a ligand-gated ion channel [], all 5-HT receptors are members of the rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptor family [], and they activate an intracellular second messenger cascade to produce their responses. The 5-HT7 receptor has been shown to positively modulate cAMP formation [, , ]and activate the mitogen-activated protein kinase, ERK, in primary neuronal cultures []. The receptor is expressed in a variety of human tissues, particularly in the brain, the gastrointestinal tract, and in various blood vessels []. It has an extensive vascular distribution []and is responsible for the prominent, persistent vasodilator response to 5-HT7 in anaesthetised animals []. 5-HT7 receptors are involved in thermoregulation [, ]circadian rhythm [], learning and memory, and sleep []. This receptor has been a drug development target for the treatment of several clinical disorders []. Atypical antipsychotics, e.g. clozapine, risperidone and antidepressants, have high affinity for the 5-HT7 receptor []and it has been speculated that the 5-HT7 receptor may be involved in mood regulation, suggesting that it may be a useful target in the treatment of depression [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Several 7TM receptors have been cloned but their endogenous ligands areunknown; these have been termed orphan receptors. G10d was isolated from arat genomic library and a liver cDNA library []. It is widely distributed,being found in high levels in the lung, liver and adrenal gland, and alsoin the kidney, aorta, heart, spinal cord, gut and testis [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequentlythe subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].This family represents a group of animal proteins that play important roles in both physiological state and diseases []. Proteins in this family are frequently overexpressed by common tumors. Consequently, they are considered a possible therapeutic target in several tumors, particularly in prostate, breast, and lung cancer, but its role in some CNS/neural tumors (gliomas, neuroblastomas, medulloblastomas) may also be of interest [].
Galanin is involved in a variety of physiological mechanisms and disease states, from appetite and neuroregeneration to seizures and pain [, ]. The actions of galanin are mediated through interaction with specific membrane receptors. Three receptor subtypes have been identified; Galanin receptor 1 (GALR1), Galanin receptor 2 (GALR2) and Galanin receptor 3 (GAL3), all of which are rhodopsin-like GPCRs. They differ from one another in terms of their expression patterns, affinity for various peptide analogues and G protein-coupling specificity [, , ]. In signaling, all can act via the Gi/o class [], whilst GAL2 also has Gq/11 as a major signaling route []. Galanin receptors are widely distributed in a wide range of central nervous system (CNS), peripheral tissues and in the endocrine, mirroring the distribution of galanin [, ]. Galanin receptors mediate a variety of physiological functions including inhibition of glucose-induced insulin secretion [], stimulation of growth hormone release []and modulation of gastrointestinal motility []. These receptors also modulate neuronal functions including memory, nociception, spinal reflexes and feeding [, ]. Disruption of galanin expression or galanin receptor signaling is seen in many multifactoral conditions, suggesting a role in the development and/or pathology of certain diseases. These include Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, diabetes, alcoholism, neuropathic pain and cancer [, , ]. This entry represents the galanin receptor 1 subtype, which is expressed at significant levels in regions of the brain and spinal cord including the hypothalamus, amygdala, hippocampus, thalamus and brainstem. It has also been detected throughout the length of the human gastro-intestinal tract [, , , ]. Galanin receptor 1 reduces the concentration of cAMP [], opens G protein-coupled, inwardly rectifying K+ channels [], and stimulates MAP kinase activity []in a manner that is sensitive to pertussis toxin.
Protein phosphatases remove phosphate groups from various proteins that are the key components of a number of signalling pathways in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. Protein phosphatases that dephosphorylate Ser and Thr residues are classified into the phosphoprotein (PPP) and the protein phosphatase Mg2- or Mn2-dependent (PPM) families. The core structure of PPMs is the 300-residue PPM-type phosphatase domain that catalyses the dephosphorylation of phosphoserine- and phosphothreonine-containing protein. The PPM-type phosphatase domain is found as a module in diverse structural contexts and is modulated by targeting and regulatory subunits [, , , ].Some proteins known to contain a PPM-type phosphatase domain are listed below:Bacillus subtilis stage II sporulation protein E (SpoIIE), controls the sporulation by dephosphorylating an anti-transcription factor SpoIIAA, reversing the actions of the SpoIIAB protein kinase in a process that is governed by the ADP/ATP ratio [levdikov].Mycobacterium tuberculosis PP2C-family Ser/Thr phosphatase (PstP).Eucaryotic PP2C, a negative regulator of protein kinase cascades that are activated as a result of stress.Yeast adenylyl cyclase, plays essential roles in regulation of cellular metabolism by catalysing the synthesis of a second messenger, cAMP [].Mammalian mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase 1 (PDP1).Plant kinase-associated protein phosphatase (KAPP), regulates receptor-like kinase (RLK) signalling pathways.Plant absissic acid-insenstive 1 and 2 (ABI1 and ABI2), play a key absissic acid (ABA) signal transduction.The PP2C-type phosphatase domain consists of 10 segments of β-strands and 5 segments of α-helix and comprises a pair of detached subdomains. The first is a small β-sandwich with strand β1 packed against strands β2 and β3; the second is a larger β-sandwich in which a four-stranded β-sheet packs against a three-stranded β-sheet with flanking α-helices [, ].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSH), adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH) andbeta-endorphin are peptide products of pituitary pro-opiomelanocortin.MSH has a trophic action on melanocytes, and regulates pigment productionin fish and amphibia. The MSH receptor is expressed in high levels inmelanocytes, melanomas and their derived cell lines. Receptors are found in low levels in the CNS. MSH regulates temperature control in the septal region of the brain and releases prolactin from the pituitary.
The intracellular second messenger cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) exerts many of its physiological effects by activating cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), which in turn phosphorylates and regulates the functions of downstream protein targets including ion channels, enzymes, and transcription factors. PKA is a tetrameric enzyme composed of a two regulatory (R) and two catalytic (C) subunits. Binding of 2 cAMP molecules to each R subunit leads to holoenzyme dissociation into the R dimer and two active subunits [, , ]. There are 4 different R sububits divided in two types, type I (RI-alpha and RI-beta), and type II (RII-alpha and RII-beta), and two main C subunits (C-alpha and C-beta) []. Type I PKA is predominantly cytoplasmic, whereas type II PKA usually associates with specific cellular structures and organelles. The intracellular organization of PKA is controlled through the association with AKAPs (A-kinase-anchoring proteins) [, , ].PKA plays a role in the regulation of diverse processes such as growth, development, memory, metabolism, gene expression, immunity, and lipolysis. The cAMP/PKA signaling pathway regulates glucose homeostasis at multiple levels including insulin and glucagon secretion, glucose uptake, glycogen synthesis and breakdown, gluconeogenesis []. The cAMP/PKA pathway acts downstream of GPCRs and regulates the activities of key molecules involved in insulin secretion, including GLUT2, KATP, and Cav [].While the genes encoding the alpha and beta PKA C subunits are present in all vertebrates, in primates a third subunit, C-gamma, is encoded by an intronless gene, PRKACG, and it is was thought to be a retrotransposon []. This isoform was isolated in human testis []and mutations in the gene lead to a bleeding disorder known as platelet-type 19 (BDPLT19) associated with impaired platelet activation and cytoskeleton reorganization [].
This entry represents HCN1, which belongs to the hyperpolarisation-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channel family. HCN1 is expressed in the brain, spinal cord, dorsal root ganglion and heart muscle []. It contributes to the native pacemaker currents in heart and in neurons [, , ]. It may be involved in motor learning and hippocampal-dependent network oscillation in mice [, ]. It binds to filaminA, a putative cytoplasmic scaffold protein that binds actin and links transmembrane proteins, such as the K+ channels Kv4.2 and Kir2.1, to the actin cytoskeleton [, , ].The hyperpolarisation-activated cation current (termed I(f), I(h), or I(q)) plays a key role in the initiation and modulation of cardiac and neuronal pacemaker depolarisations. This current is carried by both K+ and Na+ through I(h) or I(f) channels, such as members of the hyperpolarisation-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) family. HCN channels belong to the superfamilyof voltage-gated pore loop channels. The voltage-dependent opening ofthe HCN channels is directly regulated by the binding ofcAMP. In vertebrates, the HCN channel family comprises four members (HCN1-4) []. Whereas HCN3 seems to be specifically expressed in neurons, the other three channels (HCN1, 2, and 4) have been detected in both heart and brain [, ]. HCN channels contain six membrane-spanning helices (S1-S6), including a positively charged voltage-sensing S4 segment and an ion-conducting pore between S5 and S6. In the C terminus the channels carry a cyclic nucleotide-binding domain (CNBD) []. Binding of cAMP to the CNBD speeds up channel opening and shifts the voltage-dependence of activation to more positive voltages []. HCN channels exhibit weak selectivity for potassium over sodium ions.
Protein phosphorylation, which plays a key role in most cellular activities, is a reversible process mediated by protein kinases and phosphoprotein phosphatases. Protein kinases catalyse the transfer of the gamma phosphate from nucleotide triphosphates (often ATP) to one or more amino acid residues in a protein substrate side chain, resulting in a conformational change affecting protein function. Phosphoprotein phosphatases catalyse the reverse process. Protein kinases fall into three broad classes, characterised with respect to substrate specificity []:Serine/threonine-protein kinasesTyrosine-protein kinasesDual specificity protein kinases (e.g. MEK - phosphorylates both Thr and Tyr on target proteins)Protein kinase function is evolutionarily conserved from Escherichia coli to human []. Protein kinases play a role in a multitude of cellular processes, including division, proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation []. Phosphorylation usually results in a functional change of the target protein by changing enzyme activity, cellular location, or association with other proteins. The catalytic subunits of protein kinases are highly conserved, and several structures have been solved [], leading to large screens to develop kinase-specific inhibitors for the treatments of a number of diseases [].This entry represents the salt-inducible protein kinases, SIK1 and SIK2, which are serine/threonine-protein kinases primarily activated by the master kinase LKB1 (STK11). SIK1 is involved in a variety of processes, such as cell cycle regulation, gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis regulation and muscle growth [, , , ]. SIK2 phosphorylates insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS1) in insulin-stimulated adipocytes, potentially modulating the efficiency of insulin signal transduction, and may have a role in the development of insulin resistance in diabetes [. SIK1/2 inhibit CREB activity by phosphorylating and inhibiting activity of TORCs, the CREB-specific coactivators, like CRTC2/TORC2 and CRTC3/TORC3 in response to cAMP signalling [].
Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) catalyses the first committed (rate-limiting) step in hepatic gluconeogenesis, namely the reversible decarboxylation of oxaloacetate to phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) and carbon dioxide, using either ATP or GTP as a source of phosphate. The ATP-utilising () and GTP-utilising () enzymes form two divergent subfamilies, which have little sequence similaritybut which retain conserved active site residues. ATP-utilising PEPCKs are monomers or oligomers of identical subunits found in certain bacteria, yeast, trypanosomatids, and plants, while GTP-utilising PEPCKs are mainly monomers found in animals and some bacteria []. Both require divalent cations for activity, such as magnesium or manganese. One cation interacts with the enzyme at metal binding site 1 to elicit activation, while the second cation interacts at metal binding site 2 to serve as a metal-nucleotide substrate. In bacteria, fungi and plants, PEPCK is involved in the glyoxylate bypass, an alternative to the tricarboxylic acid cycle.PEPCK helps to regulate blood glucose levels. The rate of gluconeogenesis can be controlled through transcriptional regulation of the PEPCK gene by cAMP (the mediator of glucagon and catecholamines), glucocorticoids and insulin. In general, PEPCK expression is induced by glucagon, catecholamines and glucocorticoids during periods of fasting and in response to stress, but is inhibited by (glucose-induced) insulin upon feeding []. With type II diabetes, this regulation system can fail, resulting in increased gluconeogenesis that in turn raises glucose levels [].PEPCK consists of an N-terminal and a catalytic C-terminal domain, with the active site and metal ions located in a cleft between them. Both domains have an alpha/beta topology that is partly similar to one another [, ]. Substrate binding causes PEPCK to undergo a conformational change, which accelerates catalysis by forcing bulk solvent molecules out of the active site []. PCK uses an alpha/beta/alpha motif for nucleotide binding, this motif differing from other kinase domains. GTP-utilising PEPCK has a PEP-binding domain and two kinase motifs to bind GTP and magnesium.This superfamily represents the C-terminal domain found in both GTP-utilising and ATP-utilising phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase enzymes.
Anthrax toxin is a plasmid-encoded toxin complex produced by the Gram-positive, spore-forming bacteria, Bacillus anthracis. The toxin consists of three non-toxic proteins: the protective antigen (PA), the lethal factor (LF) and the edema factor (EF) []. These component proteins self-assemble at the surface of host cell receptors, yielding a series of toxic complexes that can produce shock-like symptoms and death. Anthrax toxin is one of a large group of Bacillus and Clostridium exotoxins referred to as binary toxins, forming independent enzymatic (A moiety) and binding (B moiety) components. The LF and EF proteins are the enzymes (A moiety) that act on cytosolic substrates, while PA is a multi-functional protein (B moiety) that binds to cell surface receptors, mediates the assembly and internalisation of the complexes, and delivers them to the host cell endosome []. Once PA is attached to the host receptor [], it must then be cleaved by a host cell surface (furin family) protease before it is able to bind EF and LF. The cleavage of the N terminus of PA enables the C-terminal fragment to self-associate into a ring-shaped heptameric complex (prepore) that can bind LF or EF competitively. The PA-LF/EF complex is then internalised by endocytosis, and delivered to the endosome, where PA forms a pore in the endosomal membrane in order to translocate LF and EF to the cytosol. LF is a Zn-dependent metalloprotease that cleaves and inactivates mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases, kills macrophages, and causes death of the host by inhibiting cell proliferation [, ]. EF is a calcium-and calmodulin-dependent adenylyl cyclase that can cause edema (fluid-filled swelling) when associated with PA. EF is not toxic by itself, and is required for the survival of germinated Bacillus spores within macrophages at the early stages of infection. EF dramatically elevates the level of host intracellular cAMP, a ubiquitous messenger that integrates many processes of the cell; increases in cAMP can interfere with host intracellular signalling [].This entry includes lethal factor and edema factor proteins of anthrax toxin.
Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) catalyses the first committed (rate-limiting) step in hepatic gluconeogenesis, namely the reversible decarboxylation of oxaloacetate to phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) and carbon dioxide, using either ATP or GTP as a source of phosphate. The ATP-utilising () and GTP-utilising () enzymes form two divergent subfamilies, which have little sequence similarity but which retain conserved active site residues. ATP-utilising PEPCKs are monomers or oligomers of identical subunits found in certain bacteria, yeast, trypanosomatids, and plants, while GTP-utilising PEPCKs are mainly monomers found in animals and some bacteria []. Both require divalent cations for activity, such as magnesium or manganese. One cation interacts with the enzyme at metal binding site 1 to elicit activation, while the second cation interacts at metal binding site 2 to serve as a metal-nucleotide substrate. In bacteria, fungi and plants, PEPCK is involved in the glyoxylate bypass, an alternative to the tricarboxylic acid cycle.PEPCK helps to regulate blood glucose levels. The rate of gluconeogenesis can be controlled through transcriptional regulation of the PEPCK gene by cAMP (the mediator of glucagon and catecholamines), glucocorticoids and insulin. In general, PEPCK expression is induced by glucagon, catecholamines and glucocorticoids during periods of fasting and in response to stress, but is inhibited by (glucose-induced) insulin upon feeding []. With type II diabetes, this regulation system can fail, resulting in increased gluconeogenesis that in turn raises glucose levels [].PEPCK consists of an N-terminal and a catalytic C-terminal domain, with the active site and metal ions located in a cleft between them. Both domains have an alpha/beta topology that is partly similar to one another [, ]. Substrate binding causes PEPCK to undergo a conformational change, which accelerates catalysis by forcing bulk solvent molecules out of the active site []. PCK uses an alpha/beta/alpha motif for nucleotide binding, this motif differing from other kinase domains. GTP-utilising PEPCK has a PEP-binding domain and two kinase motifs to bind GTP and magnesium.This entry represents ATP-utilising phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase enzymes.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions (including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes). They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups. We use the term clan to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include the rhodopsin-like GPCRs, the secretin-like GPCRs, the cAMP receptors, the fungal mating pheromone receptors, and the metabotropic glutamate receptor family. The rhodopsin-like GPCRs themselves represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ]. A cluster of four intronless GPCR genes, sharing significant sequence similarity with one another, have been identified on human chromosome 19q13.1, downstream from the CD22 gene []. The receptors have been named GPR40, GPR41, GPR42 and GPR43. The GPR42 protein sequence shares more than 98% amino acid identity with GPR41 and is located on a possible polymorphic insert []. GPR40 has recently been shown to bind long-chain free fatty acids, molecules that have a role in various cellular processes, including regulation of insulin secretion [, ]. Expression of GPR40 is restricted to the pancreas, with high levels in the islets and pancreatic beta cell lines []. Upon activation, GPR40 appears to couple predominantly to Gq and partially to Gi proteins, and has been shown to amplify glucose-stimulated insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells. The receptor may therefore be a potential target for anti-diabetic drugs [].
Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) catalyses the first committed (rate-limiting) step in hepatic gluconeogenesis, namely the reversible decarboxylation of oxaloacetate to phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) and carbon dioxide, using either ATP or GTP as a source of phosphate. The ATP-utilising () and GTP-utilising () enzymes form two divergent subfamilies, which have little sequence similarity but which retain conserved active site residues. ATP-utilising PEPCKs are monomers or oligomers of identical subunits found in certain bacteria, yeast, trypanosomatids, and plants, while GTP-utilising PEPCKs are mainly monomers found in animals and some bacteria []. Both require divalent cations for activity, such as magnesium or manganese. One cation interacts with the enzyme at metal binding site 1 to elicit activation, while the second cation interacts at metal binding site 2 to serve as a metal-nucleotide substrate. In bacteria, fungi and plants, PEPCK is involved in the glyoxylate bypass, an alternative to the tricarboxylic acid cycle.PEPCK helps to regulate blood glucose levels. The rate of gluconeogenesis can be controlled through transcriptional regulation of the PEPCK gene by cAMP (the mediator of glucagon and catecholamines), glucocorticoids and insulin. In general, PEPCK expression is induced by glucagon, catecholamines and glucocorticoids duringperiods of fasting and in response to stress, but is inhibited by (glucose-induced) insulin upon feeding []. With type II diabetes, this regulation system can fail, resulting in increased gluconeogenesis that in turn raises glucose levels [].PEPCK consists of an N-terminal and a catalytic C-terminal domain, with the active site and metal ions located in a cleft between them. Both domains have an alpha/beta topology that is partly similar to one another [, ]. Substrate binding causes PEPCK to undergo a conformational change, which accelerates catalysis by forcing bulk solvent molecules out of the active site []. PCK uses an alpha/beta/alpha motif for nucleotide binding, this motif differing from other kinase domains. GTP-utilising PEPCK has a PEP-binding domain and two kinase motifs to bind GTP and magnesium.This entry represents the C-terminal P-loop domain found in GTP-utilising phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase enzymes.
Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) catalyses the first committed (rate-limiting) step in hepatic gluconeogenesis, namely the reversible decarboxylation of oxaloacetate to phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) and carbon dioxide, using either ATP or GTP as a source of phosphate. The ATP-utilising () and GTP-utilising () enzymes form two divergent subfamilies, which have little sequence similarity but which retain conserved active site residues. ATP-utilising PEPCKs are monomers or oligomers of identical subunits found in certain bacteria, yeast, trypanosomatids, and plants, while GTP-utilising PEPCKs are mainly monomers found in animals and some bacteria []. Both require divalent cations for activity, such as magnesium or manganese. One cation interacts with the enzyme at metal binding site 1 to elicit activation, while the second cation interacts at metal binding site 2 to serve as a metal-nucleotide substrate. In bacteria, fungi and plants, PEPCK is involved in the glyoxylate bypass, an alternative to the tricarboxylic acid cycle.PEPCK helps to regulate blood glucose levels. The rate of gluconeogenesis can be controlled through transcriptional regulation of the PEPCK gene by cAMP (the mediator of glucagon and catecholamines), glucocorticoids and insulin. In general, PEPCK expression is induced by glucagon, catecholamines and glucocorticoids during periods of fasting and in response to stress, but is inhibited by (glucose-induced) insulin upon feeding []. With type II diabetes, this regulation system can fail, resulting in increased gluconeogenesis that in turn raises glucose levels [].PEPCK consists of an N-terminal and a catalytic C-terminal domain, with the active site and metal ions located in a cleft between them. Both domains have an alpha/beta topology that is partly similar to one another [, ]. Substrate binding causes PEPCK to undergo a conformational change, which accelerates catalysis by forcing bulk solvent molecules out of the active site []. PCK uses an alpha/beta/alpha motif for nucleotide binding, this motif differing from other kinase domains. GTP-utilising PEPCK has a PEP-binding domain and two kinase motifs to bind GTP and magnesium.This entry represents the N-terminal domain found in GTP-utilising phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase enzymes.
Protein phosphatases remove phosphate groups from various proteins that are the key components of a number of signalling pathways in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. Protein phosphatases that dephosphorylate Ser and Thr residues are classified into the phosphoprotein (PPP) and the protein phosphatase Mg2- or Mn2-dependent (PPM) families. The core structure of PPMs is the 300-residue PPM-type phosphatase domain that catalyses the dephosphorylation of phosphoserine- and phosphothreonine-containing protein. The PPM-type phosphatase domain is found as a module in diverse structural contexts and is modulated by targeting and regulatory subunits [, , , ].Some proteins known to contain a PPM-type phosphatase domain are listed below:Bacillus subtilis stage II sporulation protein E (SpoIIE), controls the sporulation by dephosphorylating an anti-transcription factor SpoIIAA, reversing the actions of the SpoIIAB protein kinase in a process that is governed by the ADP/ATP ratio [levdikov].Mycobacterium tuberculosis PP2C-family Ser/Thr phosphatase (PstP).Eucaryotic PP2C, a negative regulator of protein kinase cascades that are activated as a result of stress.Yeast adenylyl cyclase, plays essential roles in regulation of cellular metabolism by catalysing the synthesis of a second messenger, cAMP [].Mammalian mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase 1 (PDP1).Plant kinase-associated protein phosphatase (KAPP), regulates receptor-like kinase (RLK) signalling pathways.Plant absissic acid-insenstive 1 and 2 (ABI1 and ABI2), play a key absissic acid (ABA) signal transduction.The PP2C-type phosphatase domain consists of 10segments of β-strands and 5 segments of α-helix and comprises a pair of detached subdomains. The first is a small β-sandwich with strand β1 packed against strands β2 and β3; the second is a larger β-sandwich in which a four-stranded β-sheet packs against a three-stranded β-sheet with flanking α-helices [, ].
Many pathogenic fungi undergo morphological changes in order to infect their hosts. The Ustilago maydis pathogenic cycle starts when two mating compatible haploid yeast cells recognize each other via a pheromone-receptor system which is encoded by two sets of genes a and b []. The a locus (a1 and a2) controls the cell fusion by encoding intercellular recognition system consisting of precursors (mfa1 and mfa2) and receptors (pra1 and pra2) of lipopeptide pheromones []. The open reading frame codes for a 42-amino acid precursor, which is processed to a shorter peptide of 13 amino acids. The terminal CAAX motif is typical of farnesylated fungal pheromones, in which the last three amino acids are removed during farnesylation of the cysteine residue. This terminal cysteine is known to be O-methylated in several fungal pheromones []. Mating leads to the formation of a dikaryon filament, whose apical tip differentiates into a specialized structure for plant penetration known as the appressorium. Once inside the plant, U. maydis proliferates, inducing the formation of tumours and eventually develops into diploid spores []. This mating process requires cross-talk between cAMP and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling []. Upstream regulation of a locus has been demonstrated where Hos2 (Histone deacetylases (HDACs) plant homologue) directly regulates the expression of U. maydis mating-type genes downstream of the cAMP-PKA pathway []. Furthermore, pheromone recognition blocks cell cycle progression in U. maydis cells in order to prepare mating partners for conjugation where cells undergo arrest in G2 phase [].This family includes Mfa1 proteins from Ustilgo maydis and U. hordei.
Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) catalyses the first committed (rate-limiting) step in hepatic gluconeogenesis, namely the reversible decarboxylation of oxaloacetate to phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) and carbon dioxide, using either ATP or GTP as a source of phosphate. The ATP-utilising () and GTP-utilising () enzymes form two divergent subfamilies, which have little sequence similarity but which retain conserved active site residues. ATP-utilising PEPCKs are monomers or oligomers of identical subunits found in certain bacteria, yeast, trypanosomatids, and plants, while GTP-utilising PEPCKs are mainly monomers found in animals and some bacteria []. Both require divalent cations for activity, such as magnesium or manganese. One cation interacts with the enzyme at metal binding site 1 to elicit activation, while the second cation interacts at metal binding site 2 to serve as a metal-nucleotide substrate. In bacteria, fungi and plants, PEPCK is involved in the glyoxylate bypass, an alternative to the tricarboxylic acid cycle.PEPCK helps to regulate blood glucose levels. The rate of gluconeogenesis can be controlled through transcriptional regulation of the PEPCK gene by cAMP (the mediator of glucagon and catecholamines), glucocorticoids and insulin. In general, PEPCK expression is induced by glucagon, catecholamines and glucocorticoids during periods of fasting and in response to stress, but is inhibited by (glucose-induced) insulin upon feeding []. With type II diabetes, this regulation system can fail, resulting in increased gluconeogenesis that in turn raises glucose levels [].PEPCK consists of an N-terminal and a catalytic C-terminal domain, with the active site and metal ions located in a cleft between them. Both domains have an alpha/beta topology that is partly similar to one another [, ]. Substrate binding causes PEPCK toundergo a conformational change, which accelerates catalysis by forcing bulk solvent molecules out of the active site []. PCK uses an alpha/beta/alpha motif for nucleotide binding, this motif differing from other kinase domains. GTP-utilising PEPCK has a PEP-binding domain and two kinase motifs to bind GTP and magnesium.This entry represents GTP-utilising phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase enzymes.
Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) catalyses the first committed (rate-limiting) step in hepatic gluconeogenesis, namely the reversible decarboxylation of oxaloacetate to phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) and carbon dioxide, using either ATP or GTP as a source of phosphate. The ATP-utilising () and GTP-utilising () enzymes form two divergent subfamilies, which have little sequence similarity but which retain conserved active site residues. ATP-utilising PEPCKs are monomers or oligomers of identical subunits found in certain bacteria, yeast, trypanosomatids, and plants, while GTP-utilising PEPCKs are mainly monomers found in animals and some bacteria []. Both require divalent cations for activity, such as magnesium or manganese. One cation interacts with the enzyme at metal binding site 1 to elicit activation, while the second cation interacts at metal binding site 2 to serve as a metal-nucleotide substrate. In bacteria, fungi and plants, PEPCK is involved in the glyoxylate bypass, an alternative to the tricarboxylic acid cycle.PEPCK helps to regulate blood glucose levels. The rate of gluconeogenesis can be controlled through transcriptional regulation of the PEPCK gene by cAMP (the mediator of glucagon and catecholamines), glucocorticoids and insulin. In general, PEPCK expression is induced by glucagon, catecholamines and glucocorticoids during periods of fasting and in response to stress, but is inhibited by (glucose-induced) insulin upon feeding []. With type II diabetes, this regulation system can fail, resulting in increased gluconeogenesis that in turn raises glucose levels [].PEPCK consists of an N-terminal and a catalytic C-terminal domain, with the active site and metal ions located in a cleft between them. Both domains have an alpha/beta topology that is partly similar to one another [, ]. Substrate binding causes PEPCK to undergo a conformational change, which accelerates catalysis by forcing bulk solvent molecules out of the active site []. PCK uses an alpha/beta/alpha motif for nucleotide binding, this motif differing from other kinase domains. GTP-utilising PEPCK has a PEP-binding domain and two kinase motifs to bind GTP and magnesium.This superfamily represents the N-terminal domain found in both GTP-utilising and ATP-utilising phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase enzymes.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].The G protein-coupled receptors EDG-2, EDG-4 and EDG-7 have now been identifiedas high affinity receptors for lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). EDG-7 is expressed at high levels in the testis, prostate, heart, pancreas and frontal cerebral cortex in humans and at lower levels in the intestine, lung and ovary. Binding of LPA to the receptor leads to increased cyclic AMP and calcium levels and activation of MAP kinases. It is believed that these effects are mediated by Gq and possibly Gi class proteins []. EDG-7 does not appear to be able to couple to G1.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is released from activated platelets and is also produced by a number of other cell types in response to growth factors and cytokines []. It isproposed to act both as an extracellular mediator and as an intracellularsecond messenger. Recently, 5G protein-coupled receptors have been identified that act as high affinityreceptors for S1P and also as low affinity receptors for the relatedlysophospholipid, SPC []. EDG-1, EDG-3, EDG-5 and EDG-8 share a high degree of similarity and are also referred to as lpB1, lpB3, lpB2 and lpB4,respectively. EDG-6 is referred to as lpC1, reflecting its more distantrelationship to the other S1P receptors.EDG-8 is expressed predominantly in the white matter tracts of the brain andin the pancreas []. Upon binding of S1P, EDG-8 appears to couple to Gi and G12 proteins but not Gq family members. Unlike other EDG receptors, which activate MAP kinases and stimulate proliferation, EDG-8 causes inhibition of ERK MAP kinases and proliferation, and also inhibition of adenylyl cyclase [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Leukotrienes (LT) are potent lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acidmetabolism. They can be divided into two classes based on the presence orabsence of a cysteinyl group. Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) does not contain such agroup, whereas LTC4, LTD4, LTE4 and LTF4 are cysteinyl leukotrienes.Cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs), previously known as the "slow reactingsubstance of anaphylaxis", are produced predominantly by myeloid cellsassociated with inflammatory responses []. They are the most potent bronchoconstrictors known and also have pro-inflammatory effects, makingthem important mediators in the pathophysiology of human asthma []. CysLTs have also been implicated in a variety of other diseases, such as allergic rhinitis, inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis []. Pharmacological studies of the effects of CysLTs have provided evidence for the existence of at least 2 distinct receptor subtypes, belonging to the G protein-coupled receptor family, designated CysLT1 and CysLT2 [, ]. CysLT1 is thought to mediate bronchospasm, plasma exudation, vasoconstriction, mucus secretion and eosinophil recruitment []. CysLT2 is less well defined, due to a lack of specific agonists and antagonists, but is thought to mediate some of the vascular effects attributed to CysLTs [, ]. Both receptor subtypes have now been cloned [, ].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions (including various autocrine, para-crine and endocrine processes). They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups. We use the term clan to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include the rhodopsin-like GPCRs, the secretin-like GPCRs, the cAMP receptors, the fungal mating pheromone receptors, and the metabotropic glutamate receptor family.The rhodopsin-like GPCRs themselves represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Leukotrienes (LT) are potent lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acid metabolism. They can be divided into two classes based on the presence or absence of a cysteinyl group. Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) does not contain such a group, whereas LTC4, LTD4, LTE4 and LTF4 are cysteinyl leukotrienes.Cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs), previously known as the "slow reacting substance of anaphylaxis", are produced predominantly by myeloid cells associated with inflammatory responses []. They are the most potent bronchoconstrictors known and also have pro-inflammatory effects, making them important mediators in the pathophysiology of human asthma []. CysLTs have also been implicated in a variety of other diseases, such as allergic rhinitis, inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis []. Pharmacological studies of the effects of CysLTs have provided evidence for the existence of at least 2 distinct receptor subtypes, belonging to the G protein-coupled receptor family, designated CysLT1 and CysLT2 [, ]. CysLT1 is thought to mediate bronchospasm, plasma exudation, vasoconstriction, mucus secretion and eosinophil recruitment []. CysLT2 is less well defined, owing to a lack of specific agonists and antagonists, but is thought to mediate some of the vascular effects attributed to CysLTs [, ]. Both receptor subtypes have now been cloned [, ].CysLT1 has a much higher affinity for LTD4 than for the other cysteinyl leukotrienes and, upon activation, stimulates phosphatidyl inositol hydrolysis and increases in intracellular calcium. The receptor is expressed at highest levels in the spleen and in peripheral blood leukocytes, with lower levels in the lung, placenta, small intestine, pancreas, colon and heart [, , ].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions (including various autocrine, para-crine and endocrine processes). They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups. We use the term clan to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include the rhodopsin-like GPCRs, the secretin-like GPCRs, the cAMP receptors, the fungal mating pheromone receptors, and the metabotropic glutamate receptor family.The rhodopsin-like GPCRs themselves represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Leukotrienes (LT) are potent lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acid metabolism. They can be divided into two classes based on the presence or absence of a cysteinyl group. Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) does not contain such a group, whereas LTC4, LTD4, LTE4 and LTF4 are cysteinyl leukotrienes.Cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs), previously known as the "slow reacting substance of anaphylaxis", are produced predominantly by myeloid cells associated with inflammatory responses []. They are the most potent bronchoconstrictors known and also have pro-inflammatory effects, making them important mediators in the pathophysiology of human asthma []. CysLTs have also been implicated in a variety of other diseases, such as allergic rhinitis, inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis []. Pharmacological studies of the effects of CysLTs have provided evidence for the existence of at least 2 distinct receptor subtypes, belonging to the G protein-coupled receptor family, designated CysLT1 and CysLT2 [, ]. CysLT1 is thought to mediate bronchospasm, plasma exudation, vasoconstriction, mucus secretion and eosinophil recruitment []. CysLT2 is less well defined, due to a lack of specific agonists and antagonists, but is thought to mediate some of the vascular effects attributed to CysLTs [, ]. Both receptor subtypes have now been cloned [, ].CysLT2 has highest affinities for LTC4 and LTD4 and, upon activation, stimulates phosphatidyl inositol hydrolysis leading to increased intracellular calcium concentration. The receptor is expressed widely, with highest levels in the heart, placenta, spleen, peripheral blood leukocytes and adrenal gland [, , ].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has only 14 types of chemosensory neuron, yet is able to sense and respond to several hundred different chemicals because each neuron detects several stimuli []. Chemoperception is one of the central senses of soil nematodes like C. elegans which are otherwise 'blind' and 'deaf' []. Chemoreception in C. elegans is mediated by members of the seven-transmembrane G-protein-coupled receptor class (7TM GPCRs). More than 1300 potential chemoreceptor genes have been identified in C. elegans, which are generally prefixed sr for serpentine receptor. The receptor superfamilies include Sra (Sra, Srb, Srab, Sre), Str (Srh, Str, Sri, Srd, Srj, Srm, Srn) and Srg (Srx, Srt, Srg, Sru, Srv, Srxa), as well as the families Srw, Srz, Srbc, Srsx and Srr [, , ]. Many of these proteins have homologues in Caenorhabditis briggsae.This entry represents serpentine receptor class e (Sre) from the Sra superfamily [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) is a cyclic peptide originallyidentified in teleost fish []. In fish, MCH is released from thepituitary and causes lightening of skin pigment cells through pigmentaggregation. In mammals, MCH is predominantly expressed in thehypothalamus, and functions as a neurotransmitter in the control of a rangeof functions. A major role of MCH is thought to be in the regulation offeeding: injection of MCH into rat brains stimulates feeding; expression ofMCH is upregulated in the hypothalamus of obese and fasting mice; and micelacking MCH are lean and eat less. MCH and alpha melanocyte-stimulatinghormone (alpha-MSH) have antagonistic effects on a number of physiologicalfunctions. Alpha-MSH darkens pigmentation in fish and reduces feeding inmammals, whereas MCH increases feeding [].Two G protein-coupled receptors, MCH1 and MCH2, have recently beenidentified as receptors for the melanin-concentrating hormone.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has only 14 types of chemosensory neuron, yet is able to sense and respond to several hundred different chemicals because each neuron detects several stimuli []. Chemoperception is one of the central senses of soil nematodes like C. elegans which are otherwise 'blind' and 'deaf' []. Chemoreception in C. elegans is mediated by members of the seven-transmembrane G-protein-coupled receptor class (7TM GPCRs). More than 1300 potential chemoreceptor genes have been identified in C. elegans, which are generally prefixed sr for serpentine receptor. The receptor superfamilies include Sra (Sra, Srb, Srab, Sre), Str (Srh, Str, Sri, Srd, Srj, Srm, Srn) and Srg (Srx, Srt, Srg, Sru, Srv, Srxa), as well as the families Srw, Srz, Srbc, Srsx and Srr [, , ]. Many of these proteins have homologues in Caenorhabditis briggsae.This entry represents serpentine receptor class z (Srz), a solo family amongst the superfamilies of chemoreceptors [, ]. The genes encoding Srz appear to be under strong adaptive evolutionary pressure [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The secretin-like GPCRs include secretin [], calcitonin [], parathyroid hormone/parathyroid hormone-related peptides []and vasoactive intestinal peptide [], all of which activate adenylyl cyclase and the phosphatidyl-inositol-calcium pathway. These receptors contain seven transmembrane regions, in a manner reminiscent of the rhodopsins and other receptors believed to interact with G-proteins (however there is no significant sequence identity between these families, the secretin-like receptors thus bear their own unique '7TM' signature). Their N-terminal is probably located on the extracellular side of the membrane and potentially glycosylated. This N-terminal region contains a long conserved region which allows the binding of large peptidic ligand such as glucagon, secretin, VIP and PACAP; this region contains five conserved cysteines residues which could be involved in disulphide bond. The C-terminal region of these receptor is probably cytoplasmic. Every receptor gene in this family is encoded on multiple exons, and several of these genes are alternatively spliced to yield functionally distinct products. Secretin stimulates secretion of enzymes and ions in the pancreas andintestine, and is present in small amounts in the brain (e.g., in thehypothalamus, brainstem and cerebral cortex). Secretin receptors arefound in high levels in the pancreas, stomach and heart. They activateadenylyl cyclase through stimulation of G proteins.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The secretin-like GPCRs include secretin [], calcitonin [], parathyroid hormone/parathyroid hormone-related peptides []and vasoactive intestinal peptide [], all of which activate adenylyl cyclase and the phosphatidyl-inositol-calcium pathway. These receptors contain seven transmembrane regions, in a manner reminiscent of the rhodopsins and other receptors believed to interact with G-proteins (however there is no significant sequence identity between these families, the secretin-like receptors thus bear their own unique '7TM' signature). Their N-terminal is probably located on the extracellular side of the membrane and potentially glycosylated. This N-terminal region contains a long conserved region which allows the binding of large peptidic ligand such as glucagon, secretin, VIP and PACAP; this region contains five conserved cysteines residues which could be involved in disulphide bond. The C-terminal region of these receptor is probably cytoplasmic. Every receptor gene in this family is encoded on multiple exons, and several of these genes are alternatively spliced to yield functionally distinct products.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has only 14 types of chemosensory neuron, yet is able to sense and respond to several hundred different chemicals because each neuron detects several stimuli []. Chemoperception is one of the central senses of soil nematodes like C. elegans which are otherwise 'blind' and 'deaf' []. Chemoreception in C. elegans is mediated by members of the seven-transmembrane G-protein-coupled receptor class (7TM GPCRs). More than 1300 potential chemoreceptor genes have been identified in C. elegans, which are generally prefixed sr for serpentine receptor. The receptor superfamilies include Sra (Sra, Srb, Srab, Sre), Str (Srh, Str, Sri, Srd, Srj, Srm, Srn) and Srg (Srx, Srt, Srg, Sru, Srv, Srxa), as well as the families Srw, Srz, Srbc, Srsx and Srr [, , ]. Many of these proteins have homologues in Caenorhabditis briggsae.This entry represents serpentine receptor class b (Srb) from the Sra superfamily []. Srb receptors contain 6-8 hydrophobic, putative transmembrane, regions and can be distinguished from other 7TM GPCR receptors by their own characteristic TM signatures.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The secretin-like GPCRs include secretin [], calcitonin [], parathyroid hormone/parathyroid hormone-related peptides []and vasoactive intestinal peptide [], all of which activate adenylyl cyclase and the phosphatidyl-inositol-calcium pathway. These receptors contain seven transmembrane regions, in a manner reminiscent of the rhodopsins and other receptors believed to interact with G-proteins (however there is no significant sequence identity between these families, the secretin-like receptors thus bear their own unique '7TM' signature). Their N-terminal is probably located on the extracellular side of the membrane and potentially glycosylated. This N-terminal region contains a long conserved region which allows the binding of large peptidic ligand such as glucagon, secretin, VIP and PACAP; this region contains five conserved cysteines residues which could be involved in disulphide bond. The C-terminal region of these receptor is probably cytoplasmic. Every receptor gene in this family is encoded on multiple exons, and several of these genes are alternatively spliced to yield functionally distinct products. Insect diuretic hormones regulate fluid and ion secretion, and the receptorswith which they interact are attractive targets for new insect controlagents []. Diuretic hormone receptors from the moth, Manduca sexta, and thehouse cricket, Acheta domesticus, share 53% sequence identity and have beenshown to be members of the secretin-like family of GPCRs []. The receptorsbind diuretic hormone with high affinity and stimulate adenylate cyclasewith high potency.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Vasopressin and oxytocin are members of the neurohypophyseal hormone familyfound in all mammalian species. They are present in high levels in theposterior pituitary. Oxytocin stimulates contraction of uterine smoothmuscle, and stimulates milk secretion in response to suckling by inducingcontraction of myoepithelial cells in the mammary gland. Clinically, itis used to induce labour and promote lactation.Oxytocin receptors are found in uterine smooth muscle, myoepithelialcells in the mammary gland, and in the pituitary. Activation ofphosphoinositide metabolism is effected via a pertussis-toxin-insensitiveG-protein, probably of the Gq/G11 class.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Vasopressin and oxytocin are members of the neurohypophyseal hormone familyfound in all mammalian species. They are present in high levels in theposterior pituitary. Vasopressin has an essential role in the control ofthe water content of the body, acting in the kidney to increase water andsodium absorption. In higher concentrations, vasopressin stimulatescontraction of vascular smooth muscle, stimulates glycogen breakdown in theliver, induces platelet activation, and evokes release of corticotrophinfrom the anterior pituitary. Vasopressin and its analogues are usedclinically to treat diabetes insipidus. Oxytocin stimulates contractionof uterine smooth muscle, and stimulates milk secretion in response tosuckling by inducing contraction of myoepithelial cells in the mammary gland. Clinically, it is used to induce labour and promote lactation.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR family 3 receptors (also known as family C) are structurally similar to other GPCRs, but do not show any significant sequence similarity and thus represent a distinct group. Structurally they are composed of four elements; an N-terminal signal sequence; a large hydrophilic extracellular agonist-binding region containing several conserved cysteine residues which could be involved in disulphide bonds; a shorter region containing seven transmembrane domains; and a C-terminal cytoplasmic domain of variable length []. Family 3 members include the metabotropic glutamate receptors, the extracellular calcium-sensing receptors, the gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) type B receptors, and the vomeronasal type-2 receptors [, , , ]. As these receptors regulate many important physiological processes they are potentially promising targets for drug development.This entry represents the C-terminal region of family 3 GPCR receptor proteins, which contains the seven transmembrane region. The seven TM regions assemble in such a way as to produce a docking pocket into which such molecules as cyclamate and lactisole have been found to bind and consequently confer the taste of sweetness [].
The adrenoceptors (or adrenergic receptors) are rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptors that are targets of the catecholamines, especially norepinephrine (noradrenaline) and epinephrine (adrenaline). Many cells possess these receptors, and the binding of a catecholamine to the receptor will generally stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, effect blood pressure, myocardial contractile rate and force, airway reactivity, and a variety of metabolic and central nervous system functions. The clinical uses of adrenergic compounds are vast. Agonists and antagonists interacting with adrenoceptors have proved useful in the treatment of a variety of diseases, including hypertension, angina pectoris, congestive heart failure, asthma, depression, benign prostatic hypertrophy, and glaucoma. These drugs are also useful in several other therapeutic situations including shock, premature labour and opioid withdrawal, and as adjuncts to general anaesthetics.There are three classes of adrenoceptors, based on their sequence similarity, receptor pharmacology and signalling mechanisms []. These three classes are alpha 1 (a Gq coupled receptor), alpha 2 (a Gi coupled receptor) and beta (a Gs coupled receptor), and each can be further divided into subtypes []. The different subtypes can coexist in some tissues, but one subtype normally predominates.There are three subtpyes of alpha 2 adrenoceptors (2A-C). The receptors are usually found presynaptically, where they inhibit the release of noradrenaline, and thus serve as an important receptor in the negative feedback control of noradrenaline release [, , , ]. Postsynaptic alpha 2 receptors are located on liver cells, platelets, and the smooth muscle of blood vessels. Activation of the receptors causes platelet aggregation [], blood vessel constriction [, ]and constriction of vascular smooth muscle []. Agonists of alpha 2 adrenergic receptors are frequently used in veterinary anaesthesia, where they affect sedation, muscle relaxation and analgesia through their effects on the CNS []. Alpha 2 adrenoceptors are coupled through the Gi/Go mechanism, inhibiting adenylate cyclase activity and downregulating cAMP formation. This entry represents the alpha 2A adrenoceptor. It is expressed at high levels in the CNS, and in peripheral tissues such as kidney, aorta, skeletal muscle, spleen and lung [, , , ].
The adrenoceptors (or adrenergic receptors) are rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptors that are targets of the catecholamines, especially norepinephrine (noradrenaline) and epinephrine (adrenaline). Many cells possess these receptors, and the binding of a catecholamine to the receptor will generally stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, effect blood pressure, myocardial contractile rate and force, airway reactivity, and a variety of metabolic and central nervous system functions. The clinical uses of adrenergic compounds are vast. Agonists and antagonists interacting with adrenoceptors have proved useful in the treatment of a variety of diseases, including hypertension, angina pectoris, congestive heart failure, asthma, depression, benign prostatic hypertrophy, and glaucoma. These drugs are also useful in several other therapeutic situations including shock, premature labour and opioid withdrawal, and as adjuncts to general anaesthetics.There are three classes of adrenoceptors, based on their sequence similarity, receptor pharmacology and signalling mechanisms []. These three classes are alpha 1 (a Gq coupled receptor), alpha 2 (a Gi coupled receptor) and beta (a Gs coupled receptor), and each can be further divided into subtypes []. The different subtypes can coexist in some tissues, but one subtype normally predominates.There are three subtpyes of alpha 2 adrenoceptors (2A-C). The receptors are usually found presynaptically, where they inhibit the release of noradrenaline, and thus serve as an important receptor in the negative feedback control of noradrenaline release [, , , ]. Postsynaptic alpha 2 receptors are located on liver cells, platelets, and the smooth muscle of blood vessels. Activation of the receptors causes platelet aggregation [], blood vessel constriction [, ]and constriction of vascular smooth muscle []. Agonists of alpha 2 adrenergic receptors are frequently used in veterinary anaesthesia, where they affect sedation, muscle relaxation and analgesia through their effects on the CNS []. Alpha 2 adrenoceptors are coupled through the Gi/Go mechanism, inhibiting adenylate cyclase activity and downregulating cAMP formation. This entry represents the alpha 2B receptor. It is found in the kidney, brain,and spinal cord, along with the other alpha 2 subtypes. However, it is the onlysubtype to be found in the heart and liver. Peripheral tissues, predominantlyexpress the alpha 2A and 2B subtypes, with little alpha 2C. This is in contrastto the CNS, where alpha 2A and 2C are predominantly expressed, with littlealpha 2B [, ].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Chemerin-like receptor 2 (CML2, also known as GPCR1), is a receptor for chemoattractant adipokine chemerin/RARRES2 that may have a role for in the regulation of inflammation and energy homeostasis [, ]. This protein also acts also as a receptor for TAFA1, mediates its effects on neuronal stem-cell proliferation and differentiation via the activation of ROCK/ERK and ROCK/STAT3 signaling pathway []. In humans, GPR1 is expressed in the human hippocampus []. By contrast, the rat GPR1 gene is not expressed in hippocampus, demonstrating a functional variation for this receptor in these species [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Several 7TM receptors have been cloned but their endogenous ligands are unknown; these have been termed orphan receptors. A novel GPCR (GPR4) from the critical myotonic dystrophy (DM) region on chromosome 19q13.3 has been sequenced [, ]. The gene is intronless and contain an open reading frame encoding a protein of 362amino acids. Two isoforms of GPR4 are expressed in humans, differing in their 3'untranslated region as a result of the use of alternate polyadenylation signals. GPR4 iswidely expressed, with higher levels in kidney, heart, and especially lung []. Sequenceanalysis suggests that GPR4 is a peptide receptor; it shares strongest similarity withpurinergic receptors and receptors for angiotensin II, platelet activating factor, thrombinand bradykinin [, ].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Chemerin-like receptor 1 (CML1, also known as ChemR23 and DEZ), is a GPCR for the chemoattractant adipokine chemerin, and for the omega-3 fatty acid derived molecule resolvin E1 [, ], mainly found in chordates. Interaction with chemerin induces activation of the MAPK and PI3K signaling pathways leading to downstream functional effects, such as a decrease in immune responses, stimulation of adipogenesis, and angiogenesis [, ]. Resolvin E1 decreases pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and enhances macrophage phagocytic activity by regulation of the NFkB pathway []. This protein is prominently expressed in dendritic cells and macrophages [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Platelet-activating factor (PAF), a unique phospholipid mediator, possessespotent proinflammatory, smooth-muscle contractile and hypotensive activities,and appears to be crucial in the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma and in thelethality of endotoxin and anaphylactic shock [, ]. However, little isknown of the molecular properties of the PAF receptor and related signaltransduction systems []. The gene for the human PAF receptor (PAFR) hasbeen isolated, and encodes a protein that is highly similar to the guinea pig PAF receptor. Analysis of somatic cell hybrids suggests that PAFR isencoded by a single gene on human chromosome 1 [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Several 7TM receptors have been cloned but their endogenous ligands areunknown; these have been termed orphan receptors. A GPCR similar to thereceptor for the blood clotting enzyme thrombin has been cloned []. Likethe thrombin receptor, this receptor is activated by N-terminal proteolyticcleavage. Thus, because the physiological agonist at the receptor isunknown, it has been provisionally named proteinase-activated receptor 2(PAR-2) []. Human PAR-2 (hPAR-2) resides both on the plasma membrane andin the Golgi apparatus []. hPAR-2 mRNA is highly expressed in humanpancreas, kidney, colon, liver and small intestine, and by A549 lung andSW480 colon adenocarcinoma cells []. Hybridisation in situ reveals highexpression in intestinal epithelial cells throughout the gut [], where itis thought that PAR-2 may serve as a trypsin sensor []. Its expressionby cells and tissues not normally exposed to pancreatic trypsin suggeststhat other proteases could serve as physiological activators [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Thrombin is a coagulation protease that activates platelets, leukocytes, endothelial and mesenchymal cells at sites of vascular injury, acting partlythrough an unusual proteolytically activated GPCR []. Gene knockout experiments have provided definitive evidence for a second thrombin receptorin mouse platelets and have suggested tissue-specific roles for differentthrombin receptors. Because the physiological agonist at the receptor wasoriginally unknown, it was provisionally named protease-activated receptor(PAR) []. At least 4 PAR subtypes have now been characterised. Thus, the thrombin and PAR receptors constitute a fledgling receptor family that shares a novel proteolytic activation mechanism [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR family 3 receptors (also known as family C) are structurally similar to other GPCRs, but do not show any significant sequence similarity and thus represent a distinct group. Structurally they are composed of four elements; an N-terminal signal sequence; a large hydrophilic extracellular agonist-binding region containing several conserved cysteine residues which could be involved in disulphide bonds; a shorter region containing seven transmembrane domains; and a C-terminal cytoplasmic domain of variable length []. Family 3 members include the metabotropic glutamate receptors, the extracellular calcium-sensing receptors, the gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) type B receptors, and the vomeronasal type-2 receptors [, , , ]. As these receptors regulate many important physiological processes they are potentially promising targets for drug development.This entry represents a conserved sequence, found in the extracellular region, that contains several highly-conserved Cys residues that are predicted to form disulphide bridges.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].The term opioid refers to a class of substance that produces its effectsvia the major classes of opioid receptor, termed mu, delta and kappa.In the CNS, the mu opioid receptor is found in the cerebral cortex,thalamus, hypothalamus, periaqueductal grey, interpeduncular nucleus andmedian raphe. In the periphery, it is found in the myenteric plexus, andin certain smooth muscles, e.g. mouse vas deferens. Mu opioidreceptors are believed to mediate analgesia, hypothermia, respiratorydepression, miosis, bradycardia, nausea, euphoria and physical dependence.Beta-endorphin is the most potent endogenous ligand.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (ClassA, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].The term opioid refers to a class of substance that produces its effectsvia the major classes of opioid receptor, termed mu, delta and kappa.The receptors are found in the CNS and certain smooth muscles: mu-opioidreceptors are believed to mediate analgesia, hypothermia, respiratorydepression, miosis, bradycardia, nausea, euphoria and physical dependence,beta-endorphin being the most potent endogenous ligand; delta-receptorsmediate analgesia; and kappa-opioid receptors are believed to mediateanalgesia, sedation, miosis and diuresis, dynorphin being the most potentendogenous ligand.A human placental protein that binds opioid ligands with moderate affinityhas been provisionally classified as an opioid receptor. However, it isnot selective for kappa-ligands and is 93% similar to the human NK3tachykinin receptor, although it doesn't bind tachykinins.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR family 3 receptors (also known as family C) are structurally similar to other GPCRs, but do not show any significant sequence similarity and thus represent a distinct group. Structurally they are composed of four elements; an N-terminal signal sequence; a large hydrophilic extracellular agonist-binding region containing several conserved cysteine residues which could be involved in disulphide bonds; a shorter region containing seven transmembrane domains; and a C-terminal cytoplasmic domain of variable length []. Family 3 members include the metabotropic glutamate receptors, the extracellular calcium-sensing receptors, the gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) type B receptors, and the vomeronasal type-2 receptors [, , , ]. As these receptors regulate many important physiological processes they are potentially promising targets for drug development.The metabotropic glutamate receptors are functionally and pharmacologically distinct from the ionotropic glutamate receptors. They are coupled to G-proteins and stimulate the inositol phosphate/Ca2+intracellular signalling pathway [, , , ]. At least eight sub-types of metabotropic receptor (GRM1-8) have been identified in cloning studies. The sub-types differ in their agonist pharmacology and signal transduction pathways.GRM6 is restrictedly expressed in retinal ON bipolar cells and, on the basis of its agonist selectivity, may have a key physiological role in certain inherited eyediseases [, ].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR family 3 receptors (also known as family C) are structurally similar to other GPCRs, but do not show any significant sequence similarity and thus represent a distinct group. Structurally they are composed of four elements; an N-terminal signal sequence; a large hydrophilic extracellular agonist-binding region containing several conserved cysteine residues which could be involved in disulphide bonds; a shorter region containing seven transmembrane domains; and a C-terminal cytoplasmic domain of variable length []. Family 3 members include the metabotropic glutamate receptors, the extracellular calcium-sensing receptors, the gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) type B receptors, and the vomeronasal type-2 receptors [, , , ]. As these receptors regulate many important physiological processes they are potentially promising targets for drug development.The metabotropic glutamate receptors are functionally and pharmacologically distinct from the ionotropic glutamate receptors. They are coupled to G-proteins and stimulate the inositol phosphate/Ca2+intracellular signalling pathway [, , , ]. At least eight sub-types of metabotropic receptor (GRM1-8) have been identified in cloning studies. The sub-types differ in their agonist pharmacology and signal transduction pathways.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Vasopressin and oxytocin are members of the neurohypophyseal hormone familyfound in all mammalian species. They are present at high levels in theposterior pituitary. Vasopressin has an essential role in the control ofthe water content of the body, acting in the kidney to increase water andsodium absorption. In higher concentrations, vasopressin stimulatescontraction of vascular smooth muscle, stimulates glycogen breakdown in theliver, induces platelet activation, and evokes release of corticotrophinfrom the anterior pituitary. Vasopressin and its analogues are usedclinically to treat diabetes insipidus.The V2 receptor is found in high levels in the osmoregulatory epithelia ofthe terminal urinary tract, where it stimulates water reabsorption. Itis also present in lower levels in the endothelium and blood vessels of somespecies, where it induces vasodilation. In the CNS, binding sites arefound in the subiculum, with lower levels in caudate-putamen and islandsof Calleja. The receptor is involved in an effector pathway that formscAMP through activation of G proteins.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR family 3 receptors (also known as family C) are structurally similar to other GPCRs, but do not show any significant sequence similarity and thus represent a distinct group. Structurally they are composed of four elements; an N-terminal signal sequence; a large hydrophilic extracellular agonist-binding region containing several conserved cysteine residues which could be involved in disulphide bonds; a shorter region containing seven transmembrane domains; and a C-terminal cytoplasmic domain of variable length []. Family 3 members include the metabotropic glutamate receptors, the extracellular calcium-sensing receptors, the gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) type B receptors, and the vomeronasal type-2 receptors [, , , ]. As these receptors regulate many important physiological processes they are potentially promising targets for drug development.The metabotropic glutamate receptors are functionally and pharmacologically distinct from the ionotropic glutamate receptors. They are coupled to G-proteins and stimulate the inositol phosphate/Ca2+intracellular signalling pathway [, , , ]. At least eight sub-types of metabotropic receptor (GRM1-8) have been identified in cloning studies. The sub-types differ in their agonist pharmacology and signal transduction pathways.GRM8 has a strong expression in olfactory bulb, pontine gray, lateral reticular nucleus ofthe thalamus, and piriform cortex; less abundant expression has beendetected in cerebral cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum, mammillary body andretina [, ]. Glutamate evokes pertussis toxin-sensitive potassium currentsin Xenopus laevis oocytes co-expressing GRM8 and G-protein-coupled inwardlyrectifying potassium channels []. The pharmacology and expression of GRM8in mitral/tufted cells suggest it could be a presynaptic receptor modulatingglutamate release by these cells at their axon terminals in the entorhinalcortex [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drugtargets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR family 3 receptors (also known as family C) are structurally similar to other GPCRs, but do not show any significant sequence similarity and thus represent a distinct group. Structurally they are composed of four elements; an N-terminal signal sequence; a large hydrophilic extracellular agonist-binding region containing several conserved cysteine residues which could be involved in disulphide bonds; a shorter region containing seven transmembrane domains; and a C-terminal cytoplasmic domain of variable length []. Family 3 members include the metabotropic glutamate receptors, the extracellular calcium-sensing receptors, the gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) type B receptors, and the vomeronasal type-2 receptors [, , , ]. As these receptors regulate many important physiological processes they are potentially promising targets for drug development.The metabotropic glutamate receptors are functionally and pharmacologically distinct from the ionotropic glutamate receptors. They are coupled to G-proteins and stimulate the inositol phosphate/Ca2+intracellular signalling pathway [, , , ]. At least eight sub-types of metabotropic receptor (GRM1-8) have been identified in cloning studies. The sub-types differ in their agonist pharmacology and signal transduction pathways.mRNA for GRM5 is widespread in the brain, with a unique distribution; it is found in highlevels in the striatum, cerebral cortex, hippocampus and olfactory bulb.GRM5 activates the phosphoinositide pathway. It plays an important role in the regulation of synaptic plasticity and the modulation of the neural network activity []. Like GRM1 [], it is a potential therapeutic target for several diseases []with a similar structure to this seen in the entire GPCR superfamily [, ].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR family 3 receptors (also known as family C) are structurally similar to other GPCRs, but do not show any significant sequence similarity and thus represent a distinct group. Structurally they are composed of four elements; an N-terminal signal sequence; a large hydrophilic extracellular agonist-binding region containing several conserved cysteine residues which could be involved in disulphide bonds; a shorter region containing seven transmembrane domains; and a C-terminal cytoplasmic domain of variable length []. Family 3 members include the metabotropic glutamate receptors, the extracellular calcium-sensing receptors, the gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) type B receptors, and the vomeronasal type-2 receptors [, , , ]. As these receptors regulate many important physiological processes they are potentially promising targets for drug development.The metabotropic glutamate receptors are functionally and pharmacologically distinct from the ionotropic glutamate receptors. They are coupled to G-proteins and stimulate the inositol phosphate/Ca2+intracellular signalling pathway [, , , ]. At least eight sub-types of metabotropic receptor (GRM1-8) have been identified in cloning studies. The sub-types differ in their agonist pharmacology and signal transduction pathways.GRM3 is brain-specific, and is expressed in neurones in the cerebral cortex, caudate-putamen,thalamus and cerebellum []. GRM3 inhibits adenylyl cyclase through apertussis-toxin-sensitive G-protein, probably of the Gi/Go class. It has been related to neurological diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis []and to cancer [, ].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR family 3 receptors (also known as family C) are structurally similar to other GPCRs, but do not show any significant sequence similarity and thus represent a distinct group. Structurally they are composed of four elements; an N-terminal signal sequence; a large hydrophilic extracellular agonist-binding region containing several conserved cysteine residues which could be involved in disulphide bonds; a shorter region containing seven transmembrane domains; and a C-terminal cytoplasmic domain of variable length []. Family 3 members include the metabotropic glutamate receptors, the extracellular calcium-sensing receptors, the gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) type B receptors, and the vomeronasal type-2 receptors [, , , ]. As these receptors regulate many important physiological processes they are potentially promising targets for drug development.The metabotropic glutamate receptors are functionally and pharmacologically distinct from the ionotropic glutamate receptors. They are coupled to G-proteins and stimulate the inositol phosphate/Ca2+intracellular signalling pathway [, , , ]. At least eight sub-types of metabotropic receptor (GRM1-8) have been identified in cloning studies. The sub-types differ in their agonist pharmacology and signal transduction pathways.mRNA for GRM2 is widespread in the brain, with a unique distribution; it is found in highlevels in neurons in olfactory bulb, cerebral cortex, cerebellum Golgicells, and dendate gyrus granule cells. GRM2 inhibits adenylyl cyclasethrough a pertussis-toxin-sensitive G-protein, probably of the Gi/Go class;the receptor has also been reported to cause a weak stimulation ofphosphoinositide metabolism. It may mediate suppression of neurotransmission or may be involved in synaptogenesis or synaptic stabilization [, , ].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR family 3 receptors (also known as family C) are structurally similar to other GPCRs, but do not show any significant sequence similarity and thus represent a distinct group. Structurally they are composed of four elements; an N-terminal signal sequence; a large hydrophilic extracellular agonist-binding region containing several conserved cysteine residues which could be involved in disulphide bonds; a shorter region containing seven transmembrane domains; and a C-terminal cytoplasmic domain of variable length []. Family 3 members include the metabotropic glutamate receptors, the extracellular calcium-sensing receptors, the gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) type B receptors, and the vomeronasal type-2 receptors [, , , ]. As these receptors regulate many important physiological processes they are potentially promising targets for drug development.The metabotropic glutamate receptors are functionally and pharmacologically distinct from the ionotropic glutamate receptors. They are coupled to G-proteins and stimulate the inositol phosphate/Ca2+intracellular signalling pathway [, , , ]. At least eight sub-types of metabotropic receptor (GRM1-8) have been identified in cloning studies. The sub-types differ in their agonist pharmacology and signal transduction pathways.GRM4 is brain-specific, showing a distinct distribution (excluding the cerebellum), being expressedin the thalamus, hypothalamus and caudate nucleus []. In rat, the strongestMRM4 mRNA signal is found in the cerebellar granule cells []. The principaldifference from rat brain is the presence in human brain of MGR4 mRNA inthe caudate nucleus and putamen []. MGR4 inhibits adenylyl cyclase througha pertussis-toxin-sensitive G-protein, probably of the Gi/Go class.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR family 3 receptors (also known as family C) are structurally similar to other GPCRs, but do not show any significant sequence similarity and thus represent a distinct group. Structurally they are composed of four elements; an N-terminal signal sequence; a large hydrophilic extracellular agonist-binding region containing several conserved cysteine residues which could be involved in disulphide bonds; a shorter region containing seven transmembrane domains; and a C-terminal cytoplasmic domain of variable length []. Family 3 members include the metabotropic glutamate receptors, the extracellular calcium-sensing receptors, the gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) type B receptors, and the vomeronasal type-2 receptors [, , , ]. As these receptors regulate many important physiological processes they are potentially promising targets for drug development.The metabotropic glutamate receptors are functionally and pharmacologically distinct from the ionotropic glutamate receptors. They are coupled to G-proteins and stimulate the inositol phosphate/Ca2+intracellular signalling pathway [, , , ]. At least eight sub-types of metabotropic receptor (GRM1-8) have been identified in cloning studies. The sub-types differ in their agonist pharmacology and signal transduction pathways.GRM7 mRNA has a widespread distribution in many neuronal cells of the central nervoussystem, with highest levels in the hippocampal formation, cerebral cortexand cerebellum [, ]; it is thus different from the more limitedly expressedGRM4 or GRM6 mRNA []. GRM7 and GRM4 are believed to correspond to theputative L-2-amino-4-phosphonobutyrate receptor, which plays an importantrole in modulation of glutamate transmission in the CNS [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family thatencompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Prostanoids (prostaglandins (PG) and thromboxanes (TX)) mediate a wide variety of actions and play important physiological roles in the cardiovascular and immune systems, and in pain sensation in peripheral systems. PGI2 and TXA2 have opposing actions, involving regulation of the interaction of platelets with the vascular endothelium, while PGE2, PGI2 and PGD2 are powerful vasodilators and potentiate the action of various autocoids to induce plasma extravasation and pain sensation. To date, evidence for at least 5 classes of prostanoid receptor has been obtained. However, identification of subtypes and their distribution is hampered by expression of more than one receptor within a tissue, coupled with poor selectivity of available agonists and antagonists.FP receptors bind prostaglandin F2-alpha and mediate contraction in a wide range of smooth muscle, includingintraocular, myometrial and bronchial tissues, and are potent stimulants ofluteolysis. The receptors activate the phosphoinositide pathway througha pertussis-toxin-insensitive G-protein, probably of the Gq/G11 class.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Prostanoids (prostaglandins (PG) and thromboxanes (TX)) mediate a wide variety of actions and play important physiological roles in the cardiovascular and immune systems, and in pain sensation in peripheral systems. PGI2 and TXA2 have opposing actions, involving regulation of the interaction of platelets with the vascular endothelium, while PGE2, PGI2 and PGD2 are powerful vasodilators and potentiate the action of various autocoids to induce plasma extravasation and pain sensation. To date, evidence for at least 5 classes of prostanoid receptor has been obtained. However, identification of subtypes and their distribution is hampered by expression of more than one receptor within a tissue, coupled with poor selectivity of available agonists and antagonists.
Anthrax toxin is a plasmid-encoded toxin complex produced by the Gram-positive, spore-forming bacteria, Bacillus anthracis. The toxin consists of three non-toxic proteins: the protective antigen (PA), the lethal factor (LF) and the edema factor (EF) []. These component proteins self-assemble at the surface of host cell receptors, yielding a series of toxic complexes that can produce shock-like symptoms and death. Anthrax toxin is one of a large group of Bacillus and Clostridium exotoxins referred to as binary toxins, forming independent enzymatic (A moiety) and binding (B moiety) components. The LF and EF proteins are the enzymes (A moiety) that act on cytosolic substrates, while PA is a multi-functional protein (B moiety) that binds to cell surface receptors, mediates the assembly and internalisation of the complexes, and delivers them to the host cell endosome []. Once PA is attached to the host receptor [], it must then be cleaved by a host cell surface (furin family) protease before it is able to bind EF and LF. The cleavage of the N terminus of PA enables the C-terminal fragment to self-associate into a ring-shaped heptameric complex (prepore) that can bind LF or EF competitively. The PA-LF/EF complex is then internalised by endocytosis, and delivered to the endosome, where PA forms a pore in the endosomal membrane in order to translocate LF and EF to the cytosol. LF is a Zn-dependent metalloprotease that cleaves and inactivates mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases, kills macrophages, and causes death of the host by inhibiting cell proliferation [, ]. EF is a calcium-and calmodulin-dependent adenylyl cyclase that can cause edema (fluid-filled swelling) when associated with PA. EF is not toxic by itself, and is required for the survival of germinated Bacillus spores within macrophages at the early stages of infection. EF dramatically elevates the level of host intracellular cAMP, a ubiquitous messenger that integrates many processes of the cell; increases in cAMP can interfere with host intracellular signalling [].This entry represents the N- and C-terminal domains found in both lethal factor and edema factor proteins of anthrax toxin.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Prostanoids (prostaglandins (PG) and thromboxanes (TX)) mediate a wide variety of actions and play important physiological roles in the cardiovascular and immune systems, and in pain sensation in peripheral systems. PGI2 and TXA2 have opposing actions, involving regulation of the interaction of platelets with the vascular endothelium, while PGE2, PGI2 and PGD2 are powerful vasodilators and potentiate the action of various autocoids to induce plasma extravasation and pain sensation. To date, evidence for at least 5 classes of prostanoid receptor has been obtained. However, identification of subtypes and their distribution is hampered by expression of more than one receptor within a tissue, coupled with poor selectivity of available agonists and antagonists.EP3 receptors mediate contraction in a wide range of smooth muscles,including gastrointestinal and uterine. They also inhibit neurotransmitter release in central and autonomic nerves through a presynaptic action,and inhibit secretion in glandular tissues (e.g., acid secretion fromgastric mucosa, and sodium and water reabsorption in the kidney). mRNAis found in high levels in the kidney and uterus, and in lower levels inthe brain, thymus, lung, heart, stomach and spleen. The receptors activateadenylate cyclase via an uncharacterised G-protein, probably of the Gi/Goclass.
Protein phosphorylation, which plays a key role in most cellular activities, is a reversible process mediated by protein kinases and phosphoprotein phosphatases. Protein kinases catalyse the transfer of the gamma phosphate from nucleotide triphosphates (often ATP) to one or more amino acid residues in a protein substrate side chain, resulting in a conformational change affecting protein function. Phosphoprotein phosphatases catalyse the reverse process. Protein kinases fall into three broad classes, characterised with respect to substrate specificity []:Serine/threonine-protein kinasesTyrosine-protein kinasesDual specificity protein kinases (e.g. MEK - phosphorylates both Thr and Tyr on target proteins)Protein kinase function is evolutionarily conserved from Escherichia coli to human []. Protein kinases play a role in a multitude of cellular processes, including division, proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation []. Phosphorylation usually results in a functional change of the target protein by changing enzyme activity, cellular location, or association with other proteins. The catalytic subunits of protein kinases are highly conserved, and several structures have been solved [], leading to large screens to develop kinase-specific inhibitors for the treatments of a number of diseases [].In the absence of cAMP, protein kinase A (PKA) exists as an equimolar tetramer of regulatory (R) and catalytic (C) subunits. In addition to its role as an inhibitor of the C subunit, the R subunit anchors the holoenzyme to specific intracellular locations and prevents the C subunit from entering the nucleus. Typical R subunits have a conserved domain structure, consisting of the N-terminal dimerisation domain, inhibitory region, cAMP-binding domain A and cAMP-binding domain B. R subunits interact with C subunits primarily through the inhibitory site. The cAMP-binding domains show extensive sequence similarity and bind cAMP cooperatively.On the basis of phylogenetic trees generated from multiple sequence alignment of complete sequences, this family was divided into four sub-families, types I to IV []. Types I and II, found in animals, differ in molecular weight, sequence, autophosphorylation capability, cellular location and tissue distribution. Types I and II are further sub-divided into alpha and beta subtypes, based mainly on sequence similarity. Type III are from fungi and type IV are from alveolates.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Neuropeptide receptors are present in very small quantities in the celland are embedded tightly in the plasma membrane. The neuropeptides exhibita high degree of functional diversity through both regulation of peptideproduction and through peptide-receptor interaction []. The mammaliantachykinin system consists of 3 distinct peptides: substance P, substanceK and neuromedin K. All possess a common spectrum of biological activities,including sensory transmission in the nervous system and contraction/relaxation of peripheral smooth muscles, and each interacts with aspecific receptor type.In the brain, high concentrations of the NK1 receptor are found in striatum,olfactory bulb, dendate gyrus, locus coeruleus and spinal chord []. Inperipheral tissues NK1 receptors are found in smooth muscle (e.g., ileumand bladder), enteric neurons, secretory glands (e.g. parotid), cells ofthe immune system and vascular endothelium. NK1 receptors activate thephosphoinositide pathway through a pertussis-toxin-insensitive G-protein [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Neuropeptide receptors are present in very small quantities in the celland are embedded tightly in the plasma membrane. The neuropeptides exhibita high degree of functional diversity through both regulation of peptideproduction and through peptide-receptor interaction []. The mammaliantachykinin system consists of 3 distinct peptides: substance P, substanceK and neuromedin K. All possess a common spectrum of biological activities,including sensory transmission in the nervous system and contraction/relaxation of peripheral smooth muscles, and each interacts with aspecific receptor type.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists ofapproximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The metabotropic glutamate receptors are functionally and pharmacologically distinct from the ionotropic glutamate receptors. They are coupled to G-proteins and stimulate the inositol phosphate/Ca2+intracellular signalling pathway [, , , ]. At least eight sub-types of metabotropic receptor (GRM1-8) have been identified in cloning studies. The sub-types differ in their agonist pharmacology and signal transduction pathways.The calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) is an integral membrane protein thatsenses changes in the extracellular concentration of calcium ions. Theactivity of the receptor is mediated by a G-protein that activates aphosphatidyl-inositol-calcium second messenger system. The sequences of thereceptors show a high degree of similarity to the TM signature thatcharacterises the metabotropic glutamate receptors. In addition, thesequences contain a large extracellular domain that includes clusters ofacidic amino acid residues, which may be involved in calcium binding [].Defects in CaSR that result in reduced activity of the receptor causefamilial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH) and neonatal severe hyperparathyroidism (NSHPT), inherited conditions characterised by altered calciumhomeostasis [, ]. FHH-affected individuals exhibit mild or modest hypercalcemia, relative hypocalciuria and inappropriately normal PTH levels. Bycontrast, NSHPT is a rare autosomal recessive life-threatening disordercharacterised by high serum calcium concentrations, skeletal demineralisation and parathyroid hyperplasia. In addition, defects resulting fromreceptor activation at subnormal Ca2+levels cause autosomal dominanthypocalcemia [].This entry represents the extracellular calcium-sensing receptors and related proteins in GPCR family 3, such as the taste receptors.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Gastrins and cholecystokinins (CCKs) are naturally-occurring peptides that share a common C-terminal sequence, GWMDF; full biological activity resides in this region. The principal physiological role of gastrin is to stimulate acid secretion in the stomach; it also has trophic effects on gastric mucosa. Gastrin is produced from a single gene transcript, and is found predominantly in the stomach and intestine, but also in vagal nerves. The CCKB receptor has a widespread distribution in the CNS and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of panic-anxiety attacks caused by CCK-related peptides. It has a more limited distribution in the periphery, where it is found in smooth muscle and secretory glands.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Cholecystokinins (CCKs) and gastrins are naturally-occurring peptides thatshare a common C-terminal sequence, GWMDF; full biological activity residesin this region. In the periphery, the principal physiological actions ofCCK include gall bladder contraction, pancreatic enzyme secretion andregulation of secretion/absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. In theCNS, CCK induces analgesia, satiety and a decrease in exploratory behaviour.In mesolimbic and mesocortical neurons, CCK coexists with dopamine. Itis found throughout the digestive tract, with high concentrations in theduodenum and jejunum. It is also found in peripheral nerves to other smoothmuscles and to secretory glands, and is one of the most abundant peptides inthe brain. The principal physiological role of gastrin is to stimulateacid secretion in the stomach; it also has trophic effects on gastric mucosa. It is found predominantly in the stomach and intestine, but also invagal nerves.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR Fungal pheromone mating factor receptors form a distinct family of G-protein-coupled receptors, and are also known as Class D GPCRs.The Fungal pheromone mating factor receptors STE2 and STE3 are integral membrane proteins that may be involved in the response to mating factors on the cell membrane [, , ]. The amino acid sequences of both receptors contain high proportions of hydrophobic residues grouped into 7 domains,in a manner reminiscent of the rhodopsins and other receptors believed tointeract with G-proteins. However, while a similar 3D framework has been proposed to account for this, there is no significant sequence similarity either between STE2 and STE3, or between these and the rhodopsin-type family: the receptors thereofore bear their own unique '7TM' signatures which is why they have been given their own GPCR group: Class D Fungal mating pheromone receptors.This entry represents the STE2-type family of GPCR. The STE2 gene of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Baker's yeast) is the cell-surface receptor that binds the 13-residue lipopeptide a-factor.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Prostanoids (prostaglandins (PG) and thromboxanes (TX)) mediate a wide variety of actions and play important physiological roles in the cardiovascular and immune systems, and in pain sensation in peripheral systems. PGI2 and TXA2 have opposing actions, involving regulation of the interaction of platelets with the vascular endothelium, while PGE2, PGI2 and PGD2 are powerful vasodilators and potentiate the action of various autocoids to induce plasma extravasation and pain sensation. To date, evidence for at least 5 classes of prostanoid receptor has been obtained. However, identification of subtypes and their distribution is hampered by expression of more than one receptor within a tissue, coupled with poor selectivity of available agonists and antagonists.IP receptors induce relaxation in a range of smooth muscles, includingblood vessels, and potently inhibit platelet activation. The receptorsactivate adenylyl cyclase through G-proteins.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Prostanoids (prostaglandins (PG) and thromboxanes (TX)) mediate a wide variety of actions and play important physiological roles in the cardiovascular and immune systems, and in pain sensation in peripheral systems. PGI2 and TXA2 have opposing actions, involving regulation of the interaction of platelets with the vascular endothelium, while PGE2, PGI2 and PGD2 are powerful vasodilators and potentiate the action of various autocoids to induce plasma extravasation and pain sensation. To date, evidence for at least 5 classes of prostanoid receptor has been obtained. However, identification of subtypes and their distribution is hampered by expression of more than one receptor within a tissue, coupled with poor selectivity of available agonists and antagonists.DP receptors have a limited distribution. They mediate relaxation invascular, gastrointestinal and uterine smooth muscle in human and someother species; they inhibit platelet activation, and modify release ofhypothalamic and pituitary hormones. The receptors activate adenylylcyclase through G proteins.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has only 14 types of chemosensory neuron, yet is able to sense and respond to several hundred different chemicals because each neuron detects several stimuli []. Chemoperception is one of the central senses of soil nematodes like C. elegans which are otherwise 'blind' and 'deaf' []. Chemoreception in C. elegans is mediated by members of the seven-transmembrane G-protein-coupled receptor class (7TM GPCRs). More than 1300 potential chemoreceptor genes have been identified in C. elegans, which are generally prefixed sr for serpentine receptor. The receptor superfamilies include Sra (Sra, Srb, Srab, Sre), Str (Srh, Str, Sri, Srd, Srj, Srm, Srn) and Srg (Srx, Srt, Srg, Sru, Srv, Srxa), as well as the families Srw, Srz, Srbc, Srsx and Srr [, , ]. Many of these proteins have homologues in Caenorhabditis briggsae.This entry represents serpentine receptor class a (Sra) from the Sra superfamily []. Sra receptors contain 6-7 hydrophobic, putative transmembrane, regions and can be distinguished from other 7TM GPCR receptors by their own characteristic TM signatures.
Neuropeptide Y (NPY) acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain and in the autonomic nervous system. In the brain it is thought to have several functions, including increasing food intake and storage of energy as fat [, , , ], facilitation of learning and memory via the modulation of hippocampal activity [, , ], inhibition of anxiety [, , ], presynaptic inhibition of neurotransmitter release in the CNS and periphery [], and modulation of circadian rhythm [, ]. In the periphery, NPY stimulates vascular smooth muscle contraction [, ], modulates the release of pituitary hormones [, ], pain transmission [], inhibition of insulin release [, , ]and modulation of renal function []. NPY has also been implicated in the pathophysiology of hypertension [], congestive heart failure and appetite regulation [, , , ]and controlling epileptic seizures []. Signalling responses appear to be restricted to certain cell types and in the autonomic system it is mainly produced by neurons of the sympathetic nervous system and serves as a strong vasoconstrictor and also causes growth of fat tissue []. These include inhibition of Ca2+ channels, such as in neurones [], and activation and inhibition of K+ channels, such as in cardiomyocytes []and vascular smooth muscle cells [].The various functions of NPY are mediated by neuropeptide Y receptors, which are members of rhodopsin-like G-protein coupled receptors, they are also activated by peptide YY and the pancreatic polypeptide []. There are five pharmacologically distinct neuropeptide Y receptor subtypes []; neuropeptide Y receptor Y1 (Y1), neuropeptide Y receptor Y2 (Y2), neuropeptide Y receptor Y4 (Y4), neuropeptide Y receptor Y5 (Y5) and neuropeptide Y receptor Y6 (Y6). Four of the neuropeptide Y receptors have been identified in humans (Y1, Y2, Y4, Y5), which represent therapeutic targets for obesity and other disorders [, , ], as they are also involved in the control of circadian rhythm and anxiety [, , , , , ]. The pharmacological profile of the Y6 receptor is controversial, since the 'receptor' is non-functional in primates including humans [, ]and is absent from the rat genome []. All NPY receptors couple to pertussis toxin-sensitive Gi proteins via the inhibition of adenylate cyclase []. Activated neuropeptide receptors release the Gi subunit which inhibits the production of the second messenger cAMP from ATP []. Studies with endogenously expressed receptors have mainly been performed with Y1 receptors and Y2 receptors, whereas investigations of the signal transduction of other natively expressed NPY receptors has as yet, not been demonstrated.This entry represents neuropeptide Y receptor family.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].EP3 receptors mediate contraction in a wide range of smooth muscles, including gastrointestinal and uterine. They also inhibit neurotransmitter release in central and autonomic nerves through a presynaptic action,and inhibit secretion in glandular tissues (e.g., acid secretion fromgastric mucosa, and sodium and water reabsorption in the kidney). mRNAis found in high levels in the kidney and uterus, and in lower levels inthe brain, thymus, lung, heart, stomach and spleen. The receptors activateadenylate cyclase via an uncharacterised G-protein, probably of the Gi/Goclass.Sequence analysis shows the EP3 receptors to fall into distinct classes,based on their N- and C-terminal and loop signatures. For convenience,these classes have been designated types 1 to 3.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Prostanoids (prostaglandins (PG) and thromboxanes (TX)) mediate a wide variety of actions and play important physiological roles in the cardiovascular and immune systems, and in pain sensation in peripheral systems. PGI2 and TXA2 have opposing actions, involving regulation of the interaction of platelets with the vascular endothelium, while PGE2, PGI2 and PGD2 are powerful vasodilators and potentiate the action of various autocoids to induce plasma extravasation and pain sensation. To date, evidence for at least 5 classes of prostanoid receptor has been obtained. However, identification of subtypes and their distribution is hampered by expression of more than one receptor within a tissue, coupled with poor selectivity of available agonists and antagonists.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH), melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSH) andbeta-endorphin are peptide products of pituitary pro-opiomelanocortin.ACTH regulates synthesis and release of glucocorticoids and aldosteronein the adrenal cortex; it also has a trophic action on these cells.ACTH and beta-endorphin are synthesised and released in response tocorticotrophin-releasing factor at times of stress (heat, cold, infections,etc.) - their release leads to increased metabolism and analgesia.MSH has a trophic action on melanocytes, and regulates pigment productionin fish and amphibia. The ACTH receptor is found in high levels inthe adrenal cortex - binding sites are present in lower levels in theCNS. The MSH receptor is expressed in high levels in melanocytes,melanomas and their derived cell lines. Receptors are found in lowlevels in the CNS. MSH regulates temperature control in the septal regionof the brain and releases prolactin from the pituitary.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) hosts a putative GPCR. The RPE-retinalGPCR (RGR) covalently binds all-trans- and 11-cis-retinal after reductionby sodium borohydride []. All-trans-retinal is bound preferentially overthe 11-cis isomer. The human sequence is 86% identical to that of bovineRGR [, ], and a lysine residue, analogous to the retinaldehyde attachmentsite of rhodopsin, is conserved in TM domain 7 []. The human gene, whosestructure is distinct from that of the visual pigment genes, spans 14.8 kband is split into 7 exons []. This suggests that the rgr gene representsthe earliest independent branch of the vertebrate opsin gene family [].Since the RGR gene product preferentially binds all-trans-retinal, it isthought that one of its functions may be to catalyse isomerisation of thechromophore by a retinochrome-like mechanism [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].The human APJ gene which encodes this receptor was originally cloned in 1993 using a set of primers based on the 7 conserved TM domains. The putative sequence is closest in terms of identity (40-50% in the TM regions) to the angiotensin receptor (AT1); however, angiotensin II shows no affinity for the receptor []. It is a receptor for apelin receptor early endogenous ligand (APELA) and apelin (APLN) hormones, which are coupled to G proteins and inhibit adenylate cyclase activity []. The mature transcript encodes a preproprotein that yields a 13 amino acid active peptide from the C-terminal end. Apelin has a similar mRNA distribution to angiotensin II and the active peptides share some similarity. It plays a role in regulation of blood vessel formation, blood pressure, heart contractility and heart failure [, , ].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Several 7TM receptors have been cloned but their endogenous ligands areunknown; these have been termed orphan receptors. GPR37 was isolated from aset of human brain frontal lobe expressed sequence tags. The GPR37 genomicsequence was subsequently mapped to chromosome 7. A putative orthologue, 83%identical to the human form in terms of predicted amino acid sequence, hassince been identified in the mouse genome and mapped to chromosome 6. Northern blot analyses revealed a highly expressed 3.8kb mRNA and a less abundant 8kb mRNA in both human and mouse brain. The 3.8kb mRNA was also less abundantly expressed in human liver and placenta, and a further 3kb mRNA was found in mouse testis [].
Histamine plays an important role in a variety of pathophysiological conditions. In allergic conditions, histamine is released from basophils and mast cells and is responsible for symptoms of allergic conditions of the skin and airways. In the gastric mucosa, gastric induced histamine release stimulates parietal cells to secrete gastric acid. In the central nervous system (CNS), histamine is synthesized in specific neurons that are localized in the posterior hypothalamus. These neurons are involved in a variety of important physiological functions, including the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle, cardiovascular control, regulation of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal-axis, learning and memory [, , , , ].Histamine exerts its biological effects by binding to and activating four distinct separate rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptors-histamine H1 receptor, histamine H2 receptor, histamine H3 receptor, and histamine H4 receptor. Each of the histamine receptors produce a functional response, but their mechanism differs. The H1 receptor couples to Gq/11 stimulating phospholipase C, whereas the H2 receptor interacts with Gs to activate adenylyl cyclase []. The H3 and H4 receptors couple to Gi proteins to inhibit adenylyl cyclase, and to stimulate MAPK in the case of the H3 receptor [, ].This entry represents the histamine H3 receptor (also known as HH3R), which functions as presynaptic autoreceptor on histamine-containing neurones. The H3 receptor is expressed abundantly in the CNS, with highest levels found in the thalamus, caudate nucleus, cortex [, ], hypothalamus, hippocampus and olfactory tubercle. The diverse expression of H3 receptors throughout the cortex indicates an ability to modulate a large number of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, dopamine, GABA, norepinephrine and serotonin in the peripheral and CNS. However, H3 receptor distribution in the periphery is quite specific - low levels have been detected in the human small intestine, testis and prostate, but not in a number of other tissues tested, including the lung and spleen []. There has been some evidence of expression in the heart []and brain []. The ability to modulate neurotransmitters makes H3 receptors a novel therapeutic target to alleviate a number of conditions. These includes allergy, inflammatory disorders and numerous neurological conditions, such as obesity (because of the histamine/orexinergic system interaction), movement disorders (because of H3 receptor-modulation of dopamine and GABA in the basal ganglia), schizophrenia and ADHD (also because of dopamine modulation) and abnormal sleep/wake cycle (because of effects on noradrenaline, glutamate and histamine) [, , , , ]. Like all histamine receptors the H3 receptor is a G-protein coupled receptor. It is coupled to Gi, which leads to inhibition of cAMP formation [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Leukotrienes (LT) are potent lipid mediators derived from arachidonic acid metabolism. They can be divided into two classes, based on the presence or absence of a cysteinyl group. Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) does not contain such a group, whereas LTC4, LTD4, LTE4 and LTF4 are cysteinyl leukotrienes.LTB4 is one of the most effective chemoattractant mediators known, and is produced predominantly by neutrophils and macrophages. It is involved in a number of events, including: stimulation of leukocyte migration from the bloodstream; activation of neutrophils; inflammatory pain; host defence against infection; increased interleukin production and transcription []. Itis found in elevated concentrations in a number of inflammatory and allergic conditions, such as asthma, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of these diseases [].Binding sites for LTB4 have been observed in membrane preparations from leukocytes, macrophages and spleen. Two receptors for LTB4 have since been cloned (BLT1 and BLT2); both are members of the rhodopsin-like G-protein-coupled receptor superfamily [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Neurotensin is a 13-residue peptide transmitter, sharing significantsimilarity in its 6 C-terminal amino acids with several other neuropeptides,including neuromedin N. This region is responsible for the biological activity, the N-terminal portion having a modulatory role. Neurotensin is distributed throughout the central nervous system, with highest levels in the hypothalamus, amygdala and nucleus accumbens. It induces a variety of effects, including: analgesia, hypothermia and increased locomotor activity. It is also involved in regulation of dopamine pathways. In the periphery, neurotensin is found in endocrine cells of the small intestine, where it leads to secretion and smooth muscle contraction.The existence of 2 neurotensin receptor subtypes, with differing affinitiesfor neurotensin and differing sensitivities to the antihistamine levocabastine, was originally demonstratedby binding studies in rodent brain. Two neurotensin receptors (NT1 and NT2) with such properties have since been cloned and have been found to be G-protein-coupled receptor family members [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].G2A is expressed mainly in lymphocytes and its expression is up-regulated by stress and prolonged mitogenic signals. Micelacking the receptor have been found to develop a late-onset autoimmunedisease []. It has therefore been suggested that G2A may function as a sensor of LPC levels at sites of inflammation and act as a negativeregulator of lymphocyte growth to limit expansion of tissue-infiltratingcells and overt autoimmune disease. Activation of G2A by LPC results inan increase in intracellular calcium levels (through coupling to Giproteins) and activation of MAP kinases. The receptor has also been shown to couple to G13 proteins, causing RhoA activation and formation of actinstress fibres.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Neuromedin U is a neuropeptide, first isolated from porcine spinal cord andexpressed widely in the gastrointestinal, genitourinary and central nervoussystems []. Neuromedin U has potent contractile activity on smooth muscle and this activity is believed to reside within the C-terminal portion of the peptide, which is highly conserved between species. Other roles for the peptide include: regulation of blood flow and ion transport in the intestine, regulation of adrenocortical function and increased bloodpressure []. The roles of neuromedin U in the central nervous systemare poorly understood, but may include: regulation of food intake,neuroendocrine control, modulation of dopamine actions and involvement inneuropsychiatric disorders. Two G protein-coupled receptor subtypes,with differing expression patterns, have been identified and shown to bindneuromedin U.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].The metastasis suppressor gene KiSS-1 encodes a number of RFamide-related peptides, the largest of which, metastin, contains 54 amino acids.An orphan G protein-coupled receptor, GPR54, has been identified as a receptor for these peptides []. GPR54 is highly expressed in placenta, pituitary, pancreas and spinal cord. Binding of KiSS-1-encoded peptidesto the receptor results in coupling to the Gq pathway, stimulating calciummobilisation, phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis, arachidonic acid release, ERK and p38 MAP kinase phosphorylation and stress fibre formation. It alsoinhibits cell proliferation. The distribution of GPR54, together with the finding that administration of KiSS-1 peptides in rat stimulates oxytocin secretion, suggests a role in regulation of endocrine function.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Computational methods, including percent identity plots, hydropathy profiles and BLAST, have been used to analyse a gene-rich cluster at human chromosome 12p13 and to compare it with its syntenic region in mouse chromosome 6 [, , ]. Of 6 genes identified, a number were novel receptors, including GPR153 (also known as PGR1) and GPR162 (also known as GRCA) []. GPR153 is a cerebellar target of the Gli1 transcription factor, which is involved in the maintenance and proliferation of grabule neuron precursor cells in the cerebellum, and like GPR162 has a noted role in food uptake and decision making processes [].This entry represents G-protein coupled receptor 153 and G-protein coupled receptor 162.
Histamine plays an important role in a variety of pathophysiological conditions. In allergic conditions, histamine is released from basophils and mast cells and is responsible for symptoms of allergic conditions of the skin and airways. In the gastric mucosa, gastric induced histamine release stimulates parietal cells to secrete gastric acid. In the central nervous system (CNS), histamine is synthesized in specific neurons that are localized in the posterior hypothalamus. These neurons are involved in a variety of important physiological functions, including the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle, cardiovascular control, regulation of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal-axis, learning and memory [, , , , ].Histamine exerts its biological effects by binding to and activating four distinct separate rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptors-histamine H1 receptor, histamine H2 receptor, histamine H3 receptor, and histamine H4 receptor. Each of the histamine receptors produce a functional response, but their mechanism differs. The H1 receptor couples to Gq/11 stimulating phospholipase C, whereas the H2 receptor interacts with Gs to activate adenylyl cyclase []. The H3 and H4 receptors couple to Gi proteins to inhibit adenylyl cyclase, and to stimulate MAPK in the case of the H3 receptor [, ].This entry represents the histamine H2 receptor (also known as HH2R). It is located in parietal cells found in the stomach and in the heart and has a limited distribution in vascular smooth muscle and cells of the immune system. H2 receptors primarily stimulate gastric acid secretion and vasodilation, H2 antagonists are therefore used in the clinical treatment of peptic ulceration and asthma [, , ]. Activation of the H2 receptor results in physiological responses, including stimulation of suppressor T cells, decrease in neutrophil and basophil chemotaxis and activation, proliferation of lymphocytes and activity of natural killer cells []. H2 receptors are a potent stimulant of cAMP production []and increases intracellular Ca2+ concentrations and releases Ca2+ from the intracellular stores []. A combination of both H1 and H2 antihistamines block all the systemic activities of histamine [, , ]so the activation of the H2 receptor is likely to contribute to the increased vascular permeability prompted by H1 receptor stimulation. Thus, a combination of H1 and H2 receptor activation contributes to nasal airway swelling and rhinorrhea [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].In addition to their role in energy metabolism, purines (especiallyadenosine and adenine nucleotides) produce a wide range of pharmacologicaleffects mediated by activation of cell surface receptors. Distinctreceptors exist for adenosine. In the periphery, the main effects ofadenosine include vasodilation, bronchoconstriction, immunosuppresion,inhibition of platelet aggregation, cardiac depression, stimulation ofnociceptive afferents, inhibition of neurotransmitter release andinhibition of the release of other factors, e.g. hormones. In the CNS,adenosine exerts a pre- and post-synaptic depressant action, reducing motoractivity, depressing respiration, inducing sleep and relieving anxiety. Thephysiological role of adenosine is thought to be to adjust energy demandsin line with oxygen supply. Many of the clinical actions of methylxanthinesare thought to be mediated through antagonism of adenosine receptors. Foursubtypes of receptor have been identified, designated A1, A2A, A2B and A3.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The secretin-like GPCRs include secretin [], calcitonin [], parathyroid hormone/parathyroid hormone-related peptides []and vasoactive intestinal peptide [], all of which activate adenylyl cyclase and the phosphatidyl-inositol-calcium pathway. These receptors contain seven transmembrane regions, in a manner reminiscent of the rhodopsins and other receptors believed to interact with G-proteins (however there is no significant sequence identity between these families, the secretin-like receptors thus bear their own unique '7TM' signature). Their N-terminal is probably located on the extracellular side of the membrane and potentially glycosylated. This N-terminal region contains a long conserved region which allows the binding of large peptidic ligand such as glucagon, secretin, VIP and PACAP; this region contains five conserved cysteines residues which could be involved in disulphide bond. The C-terminal region of these receptor is probably cytoplasmic. Every receptor gene in this family is encoded on multiple exons, and several of these genes are alternatively spliced to yield functionally distinct products. This entry represents the family 2 GPCR receptor proteins and Frizzled proteins.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Cholecystokinins (CCKs) and gastrins are naturally-occurring peptides that share a common C-terminal sequence, GWMDF; full biological activity resides in this region. In the periphery, the principal physiological actions of CCK include gall bladder contraction, pancreatic enzyme secretion and regulation of secretion/absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. In the CNS, CCK induces analgesia, satiety and a decrease in exploratory behaviour. In mesolimbic andmesocortical neurons, CCK coexists with dopamine. It is found throughout the digestive tract, with high concentrations in the duodenum and jejunum. It is also found in peripheral nerves to other smooth muscles and to secretory glands, and is one of the most abundant peptides in the brain. The highest levels of the CCKA receptor are found in peripheral tissues, notably the pancreas, stomach, intestine and gall bladder. It has only a limited distribution in the brain. The receptor has been implicated in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, drug addiction and feeding disorders.
Galanin is involved in a variety of physiological mechanisms and disease states, from appetite and neuroregeneration to seizures and pain [, ]. The actions of galanin are mediated through interaction with specific membrane receptors. Three receptor subtypes have been identified; Galanin receptor 1 (GALR1), Galanin receptor 2 (GALR2) and Galanin receptor 3 (GAL3), all of which are rhodopsin-like GPCRs. They differ from one another in terms of their expression patterns, affinity for various peptide analogues and G protein-coupling specificity [, , ]. In signaling, all can act via the Gi/o class [], whilst GAL2 also has Gq/11 as a major signaling route []. Galanin receptors are widely distributed in a wide range of central nervous system (CNS), peripheral tissues and in the endocrine, mirroring the distribution of galanin [, ]. Galanin receptors mediate a variety of physiological functions including inhibition of glucose-induced insulin secretion [], stimulation of growth hormone release []and modulation of gastrointestinal motility []. These receptors also modulate neuronal functions including memory, nociception, spinal reflexes and feeding [, ]. Disruption of galanin expression or galanin receptor signaling is seen in many multifactoral conditions, suggesting a role in the development and/or pathology of certain diseases. These include Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, diabetes, alcoholism, neuropathic pain and cancer [, , ]. This entry represents the galanin receptor 2 subtype, which is expressed abundantly in both central and peripheral systems. In the brain, it has been found in the hypothalamus, amygdala, hippocampus, pyriform cortex, dendate gyrus, mammillary nuclei and cerebellar cortex []. Peripheral regions expressing the receptor include the prostate, uterus, ovary, vas deferens, stomach, intestine, dorsal root, pancreas, liver, heart and retina [, , ]. Activation of galanin receptor 2 leads to the stimulation of multiple intracellular events. The most commonly reported pathway appears to involve phospholipase C, because it mediates pertussis-toxin-resistant inositol phosphate hydrolysis [, , ], intracellular Ca2+ mobilisation []and Ca2+ dependent Cl- channel activation []. In addition, galanin receptor 2 can inhibit cAMP accumulation, depending on the host cell or the G-protein repertoire in the cell [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].This family represents a group of animal proteins that play important roles in both physiological state and diseases []. Proteins in this family are frequently overexpressed by common tumors. Consequently, they are considered a possible therapeutic target in several tumors, particularly in prostate, breast, and lung cancer, but its role in some CNS/neural tumors (gliomas, neuroblastomas, medulloblastomas) may also be of interest []. This small family represents [Phe13]-bombesin receptor (Bombesin receptor suptype 4, BRS4) from Bombina orientalis (oriental fire-bellied toad) and similar proteins from amphibia. The recently-identified BRS-4 bombesin receptor subtype is found only in the brain, primarily in the cortex and forebrain, and at low levels in themidbrain. The relative rank potency of bombesin-like peptides for this receptor is [Phe13]bombesin >[Leu13]bombesin >GRP >neuromedin B [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].The term opioid refers to a class of substance that produces its effectsvia the major classes of opioid receptor, termed mu, delta and kappa.In the CNS, the kappa opioid receptor is found in the cerebral cortex,substantia nigra, interpeduncular nucleus, striatum and hippocampus. Inthe periphery, it is found in the myenteric plexus of the guinea pig ileum,and it is also in certain smooth muscles, e.g. rabbit vas deferens.K-opioid receptors are believed to mediate analgesia, sedation, miosis anddiuresis. Dynorphin is the most potent endogenous ligand.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR Fungal pheromone mating factor receptors form a distinct family of G-protein-coupled receptors, and are also known as Class D GPCRs.The Fungal pheromone mating factor receptors STE2 and STE3 are integral membrane proteins that may be involved in the response to mating factors on the cell membrane [, , ]. The amino acid sequences of both receptors contain high proportions of hydrophobic residues grouped into 7 domains,in a manner reminiscent of the rhodopsins and other receptors believed tointeract with G-proteins. However, while a similar 3D framework has been proposed to account for this, there is no significant sequence similarity either between STE2 and STE3, or between these and the rhodopsin-type family: the receptors thereofore bear their own unique '7TM' signatures which is why they have been given their own GPCR group: Class D Fungal mating pheromone receptors.The STE3 gene in Saccharomyces cerevisiae is the cell-surface receptor that binds the13-residue lipopeptide a-factor. Several related fungal pheromone receptorsequences are known: these include pheromone B alpha 1 and B alpha 3, andpheromone B beta 1 receptors from Schizophyllum commune; pheromone receptor1 from Ustilago hordei; and pheromone receptors 1 and 2 from Ustilago maydis.Members of the family share about 20% sequence identity.The multiallelic mating type locus B alpha-1 of S. commune encodesa pheromone receptor and putative pheromone genes []. Analysis of this locus has provided evidence that pheromones and pheromone receptors govern recognition of self versus non-self, and sexual development in this homobasidiomycetous fungus [].This entry represents pheromone B alpha type receptors.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].GPCR Fungal pheromone mating factor receptors form a distinct family of G-protein-coupled receptors, and are also known as Class D GPCRs.The Fungal pheromone mating factor receptors STE2 and STE3 are integral membrane proteins that may be involved in the response to mating factors on the cell membrane [, , ]. The amino acid sequences of both receptors contain high proportions of hydrophobic residues grouped into 7 domains,in a manner reminiscent of the rhodopsins and other receptors believed tointeract with G-proteins. However, while a similar 3D framework has been proposed to account for this, there is no significant sequence similarity either between STE2 and STE3, or between these and the rhodopsin-type family: the receptors thereofore bear their own unique '7TM' signatures which is why they have been given their own GPCR group: Class D Fungal mating pheromone receptors.This entry represents the STE3-type family of fungal pheromone mating factor receptors. The STE3 gene of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Baker's yeast) is the cell-surface receptor that binds the 13-residue lipopeptide a-factor. Several related fungal pheromone receptor sequences are known: these include pheromone B alpha 1 and B alpha 3, and pheromone B beta 1 receptors from Schizophyllum commune; pheromone receptor 1 from Ustilago hordei; and pheromone receptors 1 and 2 from Ustilago maydis. Members of the family share about 20% sequence identity.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Prostanoids (prostaglandins (PG) and thromboxanes (TX)) mediate a wide variety of actions and play important physiological roles in the cardiovascular and immune systems, and in pain sensation in peripheral systems. PGI2 and TXA2 have opposing actions, involving regulation of the interaction of platelets with the vascular endothelium, while PGE2, PGI2 and PGD2 are powerful vasodilators and potentiate the action of various autocoids to induce plasma extravasation and pain sensation. To date, evidence for at least 5 classes of prostanoid receptor has been obtained. However, identification of subtypes and their distribution is hampered by expression of more than one receptor within a tissue, coupled with poor selectivity of available agonists and antagonists.EP1 receptors mediate contraction of gastrointestinal smooth muscles invarious species, and relaxation of airway and uterine smooth muscles,especially in rodents. The receptors activate the phosphoinositidepathway via a pertussis-toxin-insensitive G-protein, probably of theGq/G11 class.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has only 14 types of chemosensory neuron, yet is able to sense and respond to several hundred different chemicals because each neuron detects several stimuli []. Chemoperception is one of the central senses of soil nematodes like C. elegans which are otherwise 'blind' and 'deaf' []. Chemoreception in C. elegans is mediated by members of the seven-transmembrane G-protein-coupled receptor class (7TM GPCRs). More than 1300 potential chemoreceptor genes have been identified in C. elegans, which are generally prefixed sr for serpentine receptor. The receptor superfamilies include Sra (Sra, Srb, Srab, Sre), Str (Srh, Str, Sri, Srd, Srj, Srm, Srn) and Srg (Srx, Srt, Srg, Sru, Srv, Srxa), as well as the families Srw, Srz, Srbc, Srsx and Srr [, , ]. Many of these proteins have homologues in Caenorhabditis briggsae.This entry represents serpentine receptor class g (Srg) from the Srg superfamily [, ]. Srg receptors contain seven hydrophobic, putative transmembrane, regions and can be distinguished from other 7TM GPCR receptors by their own characteristic TM signatures.
Neuropeptide Y (NPY) acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain and in the autonomic nervous system. In the brain it is thought to have several functions, including increasing food intake and storage of energy as fat [, , , ], facilitation of learning and memory via the modulation of hippocampal activity [, , ], inhibition of anxiety [, , ], presynaptic inhibition of neurotransmitter release in the CNS and periphery [], and modulation of circadian rhythm [, ]. In the periphery, NPY stimulates vascular smooth muscle contraction [, ], modulates the release of pituitary hormones [, ], pain transmission [], inhibition of insulin release [, , ]and modulation of renal function []. NPY has also been implicated in the pathophysiology of hypertension [], congestive heart failure and appetite regulation [, , , ]and controlling epileptic seizures []. Signalling responses appear to be restricted to certain cell types and in the autonomic system it is mainly produced by neurons of the sympathetic nervous system and serves as a strong vasoconstrictor and also causes growth of fat tissue []. These include inhibition of Ca2+ channels, such as in neurones [], and activation and inhibition of K+ channels, such as in cardiomyocytes []and vascular smooth muscle cells [].The various functions of NPY are mediated by neuropeptide Y receptors, which are members of rhodopsin-like G-protein coupled receptors, they are also activated by peptide YY and the pancreatic polypeptide []. There are five pharmacologically distinct neuropeptide Y receptor subtypes []; neuropeptide Y receptor Y1 (Y1), neuropeptide Y receptor Y2 (Y2), neuropeptide Y receptor Y4 (Y4), neuropeptide Y receptor Y5 (Y5) and neuropeptide Y receptor Y6 (Y6). Four of the neuropeptide Y receptors have been identified in humans (Y1, Y2, Y4, Y5), which represent therapeutic targets for obesity and other disorders [, , ], as they are also involved in the control of circadian rhythm and anxiety [, , , , , ]. The pharmacological profile of the Y6 receptor is controversial, since the 'receptor' is non-functional in primates including humans [, ]and is absent from the rat genome []. All NPY receptors couple to pertussis toxin-sensitive Gi proteins via the inhibition of adenylate cyclase []. Activated neuropeptide receptors release the Gi subunit which inhibits the production of the second messenger cAMP from ATP []. Studies with endogenously expressed receptors have mainly been performed with Y1 receptors and Y2 receptors, whereas investigations of the signal transduction of other natively expressed NPY receptors has as yet, not been demonstrated.This entry represents the neuropeptide Y4 receptor, it shows the highest similarity to Y1 receptors from human, rat and mouse []. Y4 receptor is thought to have a potential role in central nervous system, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal function [].
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Vasopressin and oxytocin are members of the neurohypophyseal hormone familyfound in all mammalian species. They are present in high levels in theposterior pituitary. Vasopressin has an essential role in the control ofthe water content of the body, acting in the kidney to increase water andsodium absorption. In higher concentrations, vasopressin stimulatescontraction of vascular smooth muscle, stimulates glycogen breakdown in theliver, induces platelet activation, and evokes release of corticotrophinfrom the anterior pituitary. Vasopressin and its analogues are usedclinically to treat diabetes insipidus.In the periphery, the V1A receptor is found in high levels in vascularsmooth muscle, myometrium and the bladder where it mediates contraction.V1B receptors can be distinguished from V1A receptors by the low affinity ofcertain antagonists at the former. The receptors stimulate phosphoinositidemetabolism and are found in the anterior pituitary.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Computational methods, including percent identity plots, hydropathy profiles and BLAST, have been used to analyse a gene-rich cluster at human chromosome 12p13 and to compare it with its syntenic region in mouse chromosome 6 [, , ]. Of 6 genes identified, a number were novel receptors, including GPR153 (also known as PGR1) and GPR162 (also known as GRCA) []. GPR153 is a cerebellar target of the Gli1 transcription factor, which is involved in the maintenance and proliferation of grabule neuron precursor cells in the cerebellum, and like GPR162 has a noted role in food uptake and decision making processes [].This entry represents G-protein coupled receptor 162.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The rhodopsin-like GPCRs (GPCRA) represent a widespread protein family that includes hormone, neurotransmitter and light receptors, all of which transduce extracellular signals through interaction with guanine nucleotide-binding (G) proteins. Although their activating ligands vary widely in structure and character, the amino acid sequences of the receptors are very similar and are believed to adopt a common structural framework comprising 7 transmembrane (TM) helices [, , ].Computational methods, including percent identity plots, hydropathy profiles and BLAST, have been used to analyse a gene-rich cluster at human chromosome 12p13 and to compare it with its syntenic region in mouse chromosome 6 [, , ]. Of 6 genes identified, a number were novel receptors, including GPR153 (also known as PGR1) and GPR162 (also known as GRCA) []. GPR153 is a cerebellar target of the Gli1 transcription factor, which is involved in the maintenance and proliferation of grabule neuron precursor cells in the cerebellum, and like GPR162 has a noted role in food uptake and decision making processes [].This entry represents G-protein coupled receptor 153, identified by conserved sections along the length of the protein that characterise GP153 and distinguish itfrom closely related GP162 proteins.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The secretin-like GPCRs include secretin [], calcitonin [], parathyroid hormone/parathyroid hormone-related peptides []and vasoactive intestinal peptide [], all of which activate adenylyl cyclase and the phosphatidyl-inositol-calcium pathway. These receptors contain seven transmembrane regions, in a manner reminiscent of the rhodopsins and other receptors believed to interact with G-proteins (however there is no significant sequence identity between these families, the secretin-like receptors thus bear their own unique '7TM' signature). Their N-terminal is probably located on the extracellular side of the membrane and potentially glycosylated. This N-terminal region contains a long conserved region which allows the binding of large peptidic ligand such as glucagon, secretin, VIP and PACAP; this region contains five conserved cysteines residues which could be involved in disulphide bond. The C-terminal region of these receptor is probably cytoplasmic. Every receptor gene in this family is encoded on multiple exons, and several of these genes are alternatively spliced to yield functionally distinct products. Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) plays an important rolein the regulation of postprandial insulin secretion and proinsulin geneexpression of pancreatic beta-cells []. The human GIP-receptor encodes a7TM protein that is similar to the human glucagon-like peptide 1(GLP-1)receptor. It is hoped that an understanding of GIP-receptor regulation andsignal transduction will shed light on the hormone's failure to exert itsbiological action at the pancreatic B-cell in type II diabetes mellitus.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute a vast protein family that encompasses a wide range of functions, including various autocrine, paracrine and endocrine processes. They show considerable diversity at the sequence level, on the basis of which they can be separated into distinct groups []. The term clan can be used to describe the GPCRs, as they embrace a group of families for which there are indications of evolutionary relationship, but between which there is no statistically significant similarity in sequence []. The currently known clan members include rhodopsin-like GPCRs (Class A, GPCRA), secretin-like GPCRs (Class B, GPCRB), metabotropic glutamate receptor family (Class C, GPCRC), fungal mating pheromone receptors (Class D, GPCRD), cAMP receptors (Class E, GPCRE) and frizzled/smoothened (Class F, GPCRF) [, , , , ]. GPCRs are major drug targets, and are consequently the subject of considerable research interest. It has been reported that the repertoire of GPCRs for endogenous ligands consists of approximately 400 receptors in humans and mice []. Most GPCRs are identified on the basis of their DNA sequences, rather than the ligand they bind, those that are unmatched to known natural ligands are designated by as orphan GPCRs, or unclassified GPCRs [].The secretin-like GPCRs include secretin [], calcitonin [], parathyroid hormone/parathyroid hormone-related peptides []and vasoactive intestinal peptide [], all of which activate adenylyl cyclase and the phosphatidyl-inositol-calcium pathway. These receptors contain seven transmembrane regions, in a manner reminiscent of the rhodopsins and other receptors believed to interact with G-proteins (however there is no significant sequence identity between these families, the secretin-like receptors thus bear their own unique '7TM' signature). Their N-terminal is probably located on the extracellular side of the membrane and potentially glycosylated. This N-terminal region contains a long conserved region which allows the binding of large peptidic ligand such as glucagon, secretin, VIP and PACAP; this region contains five conserved cysteines residues which could be involved in disulphide bond. The C-terminal region of these receptor is probably cytoplasmic. Every receptor gene in this family is encoded on multiple exons, and several of these genes are alternatively spliced to yield functionally distinct products. Several 7TM receptors have been cloned but their endogenous ligands are unknown; these have been termed orphan receptors. GPR1 (formerly GPR56) was isolated from a human heart cDNA library using oligonucleotide primers corresponding to TM domains 4 and 7 of the secretin-like receptor family. The mRNA transcript is widely distributed throughout most tissues, the highest levels being found in thyroid, brain and heart. Within the brain, the hippocampus and hypothalamic nuclei express GPR1 in particularly high levels. This entry also include other orphan receptors, such as human adhesion G-protein coupled receptor G3 and G5 (AGRG3/5).
