CRHR1

Corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 1
Identifiers
Symbol	?
HGNC	2364
OMIM	122561
RefSeq	NM_004382
UniProt	P34998
Search for Structures Swiss-model Domains InterPro

Corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 1 (CRHR1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CRHR1 gene. This receptor is part of the G protein-coupled receptor family and plays a crucial role in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis), which is involved in the body's response to stress.

Structure

CRHR1 is a member of the class B family of G protein-coupled receptors. It is characterized by a large extracellular domain that is important for binding its ligand, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). The receptor spans the cell membrane seven times, a common feature of G protein-coupled receptors, allowing it to transduce extracellular signals into intracellular responses.

Function

CRHR1 is primarily expressed in the pituitary gland, cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and amygdala. Upon binding to CRH, CRHR1 activates the adenylate cyclase pathway, leading to an increase in cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels. This signaling cascade ultimately results in the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the pituitary gland, which stimulates the production of cortisol from the adrenal cortex.

Clinical significance

CRHR1 has been implicated in various psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Variations in the CRHR1 gene have been associated with altered stress responses and susceptibility to these conditions. Additionally, CRHR1 antagonists are being investigated as potential therapeutic agents for treating stress-related disorders.

Research

Studies on CRHR1 have provided insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying stress responses and their impact on mental health. Animal models with altered CRHR1 expression have been used to study the effects of stress on behavior and physiology. These studies have highlighted the importance of CRHR1 in regulating the HPA axis and its potential as a target for pharmacological intervention.

Also see

• Corticotropin-releasing hormone
• Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Adrenocorticotropic hormone
• Cortisol