Neuropeptide FF receptor

Neuropeptide FF receptor is a type of G protein-coupled receptor that is activated by the neuropeptide FF (NPFF). There are two known subtypes of this receptor, Neuropeptide FF receptor 1 (NPFF1) and Neuropeptide FF receptor 2 (NPFF2), both of which are involved in a variety of physiological processes.

Structure

Neuropeptide FF receptors are integral membrane proteins that are composed of seven transmembrane domains. Like other G protein-coupled receptors, they have an extracellular N-terminus, an intracellular C-terminus, and three extracellular and three intracellular loops. The binding site for NPFF is located within the transmembrane domains.

Function

Neuropeptide FF receptors are widely distributed in the central nervous system, particularly in areas involved in pain modulation and cardiovascular control. They are also found in peripheral tissues, including the heart and blood vessels.

Activation of NPFF receptors by NPFF leads to the inhibition of adenylate cyclase, resulting in decreased levels of cyclic AMP. This can have a variety of effects, depending on the specific cell type and physiological context. For example, in neurons, this can lead to hyperpolarization and decreased excitability.

In addition to their role in pain modulation and cardiovascular control, NPFF receptors have been implicated in a variety of other physiological processes, including feeding behavior, stress response, and the regulation of hormone release.

Clinical significance

Due to their involvement in pain modulation, NPFF receptors have been investigated as potential targets for the development of new analgesic drugs. In addition, their role in feeding behavior and stress response suggests that they may also be potential targets for the treatment of eating disorders and stress-related conditions.

See also

• Neuropeptide
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Pain modulation
• Cardiovascular system

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