VIPR2

VIPR2 (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Receptor 2) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the VIPR2 gene. It is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor superfamily. This receptor is also known as VPAC2, due to its high affinity for vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase activating peptide (PACAP).

Function

VIPR2 is a receptor for vasoactive intestinal peptide, a small neuropeptide. Vasoactive intestinal peptide is involved in smooth muscle relaxation, exocrine and endocrine secretion, and water and ion flux in lung and intestinal epithelia. It plays a key role in the neural responses to inflammation and physical stress, and is also involved in the regulation of immune responses.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the VIPR2 gene have been associated with schizophrenia. Studies have shown that duplications of the VIPR2 gene can increase the risk of developing schizophrenia. The exact mechanism by which this occurs is not fully understood, but it is believed that the overexpression of the VIPR2 gene may lead to an overactive vasoactive intestinal peptide signaling system, which may contribute to the symptoms of schizophrenia.

See also

• Vasoactive intestinal peptide
• G protein-coupled receptor
• Schizophrenia