P2X

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

P2X is a family of ion channels that are gated by adenosine triphosphate (ATP). These channels are also known as P2X receptors. They are present in a variety of mammalian cells, but their function is not fully understood. They are thought to play a role in neurotransmission, inflammation, and sensory transduction.

Structure[edit | edit source]

P2X receptors are made up of three subunits, each of which has two transmembrane domains. The extracellular loop between these domains contains ten conserved amino acid residues, which are thought to be involved in ATP binding.

Function[edit | edit source]

P2X receptors are activated by the binding of ATP. This causes the channel to open, allowing cations to flow across the cell membrane. This can trigger a variety of cellular responses, including neuronal excitability, muscle contraction, and secretion of neurotransmitters.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

P2X receptors have been implicated in a variety of medical conditions, including chronic pain, inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases. Drugs that target these receptors could potentially be used to treat these conditions.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


P2X Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD