Hypocretin (orexin) receptor 2

Hypocretin (orexin) receptor 2 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the HCRTR2 gene. It is a G protein-coupled receptor that binds the neuropeptides orexin A and orexin B (also known as hypocretin-1 and hypocretin-2).

Function

Hypocretin receptor 2 is one of the two receptors that bind the neuropeptides orexin A and orexin B. These neuropeptides are produced in the hypothalamus and are involved in the regulation of several functions, including sleep-wake cycle, feeding behavior, energy homeostasis, and reward system.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the HCRTR2 gene have been associated with narcolepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, and hypnagogic hallucinations. Studies have shown that individuals with narcolepsy often have a significantly reduced number of hypocretin neurons in the hypothalamus.

Pharmacology

Several drugs have been developed to target the hypocretin receptors, including suvorexant, a dual orexin receptor antagonist approved for the treatment of insomnia.

See also

• Hypocretin (orexin) receptor 1
• Orexin

References

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