Adenosine A3 receptor

Adenosine A3 receptor is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ADORA3 gene. It is one of the four known types of adenosine receptors, along with A1, A2A, and A2B. The A3 receptor is found in various tissues throughout the body, but is most notably expressed in the brain and lung.

Function

The Adenosine A3 receptor is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor superfamily. Upon activation, it inhibits adenylyl cyclase through its action on a G protein. This results in a decrease in the intracellular concentration of cyclic AMP, a second messenger that is involved in a variety of physiological responses.

The A3 receptor also plays a role in the regulation of inflammation and apoptosis. It has been suggested that this receptor may be a useful target for the treatment of conditions such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Ligands

Several ligands have been identified for the A3 receptor, including both agonists and antagonists. Agonists are substances that bind to a receptor and activate it, while antagonists bind to a receptor but do not activate it, instead blocking it from being activated by agonists.

Clinical significance

Due to its involvement in a variety of physiological processes, the A3 receptor is a potential target for therapeutic intervention. For example, A3 receptor antagonists have been investigated for their potential use in the treatment of glaucoma, while agonists have been studied for their potential use in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

See also

• Adenosine receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Adenylyl cyclase
• Cyclic AMP

References

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