Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M3

Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M3 (also known as M3 receptor or mAChR M3) is a type of muscarinic acetylcholine receptor that plays a crucial role in the human body. It is encoded by the human gene CHRM3.

Function

The M3 receptor is a G protein-coupled receptor that is predominantly found in the smooth muscle, glandular tissue, and the central nervous system. It is involved in various physiological processes, including smooth muscle contraction, glandular secretion, and modulation of neurotransmitter release.

Structure

The M3 receptor is a member of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor family, which consists of five different subtypes (M1-M5). Like all G protein-coupled receptors, the M3 receptor has seven transmembrane domains, an extracellular N-terminus, and an intracellular C-terminus.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the function or expression of the M3 receptor have been implicated in various diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Sjögren's syndrome, and overactive bladder syndrome. Therefore, the M3 receptor is considered a potential therapeutic target for these conditions.

Pharmacology

Several drugs target the M3 receptor to treat various conditions. For example, antimuscarinic drugs like tiotropium and ipratropium are used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD, while mirabegron is used to treat overactive bladder syndrome.

See also

• Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Neurotransmitter