Arginine vasopressin receptor 1B

Arginine Vasopressin Receptor 1B (AVPR1B) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the AVPR1B gene. It is one of the receptors for arginine vasopressin (AVP), a hormone involved in numerous physiological processes. The AVPR1B is primarily found in the pituitary gland, where it plays a significant role in the stress response by stimulating the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

Function

The AVPR1B receptor is a member of the vasopressin/oxytocin receptor family, which belongs to the larger family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Upon binding with its ligand, arginine vasopressin, AVPR1B activates G proteins that in turn trigger various intracellular signaling pathways. These pathways lead to the release of ACTH, which then acts on the adrenal cortex to release corticosteroids, including cortisol, a key hormone in the body's response to stress.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the AVPR1B gene have been associated with several disorders, including Familial Glucocorticoid Deficiency (FGD), where there is an inadequate response to ACTH, leading to low levels of cortisol. Additionally, the AVPR1B receptor has been implicated in the pathophysiology of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and anxiety disorders, suggesting that it could be a target for therapeutic interventions in these conditions.

Pharmacology

Given its role in stress response and psychiatric disorders, AVPR1B has been a target for drug development. Selective agonists and antagonists for the AVPR1B receptor are being explored for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating stress-related disorders and depression.

Genetics

The AVPR1B gene is located on the short (p) arm of chromosome 1 at position 34.2, designated as 1p34.2. Variants within this gene have been studied for their association with psychiatric disorders and response to stress.

See Also

• Arginine vasopressin
• Adrenocorticotropic hormone
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Stress