Work

Neurokinin‐1 receptor: functional significance in the immune system in reference to selected infections and inflammation

Year: 2010

Type: review

Abstract: The G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), neurokinin-1 receptor (NK1R), and its preferred ligand, substance P (SP), are reviewed in relationship to the immune system and selected infections. NK1R and SP are ubiquitous throughout the animal kingdom. This important pathway has unique functions in numerous cells and tissues. The interaction of SP with its preferred receptor, NK1R, leads to the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and proinflammatory cytokines. NK1R has two isoforms, both a full-length and a truncated form. These isoforms have different functional significances and differ in cell signaling capability. The proinflammatory signals modulated by SP are important in bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic diseases, as well as in immune system function. The SP-NK1R system is a major class 1, rhodopsin-like GPCR ligand-receptor interaction.

Source: Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences

DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2010.05826.x

Authors: Steven D. Douglas, Susan E. Leeman

Institutions: Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Boston University

Language: English

Topic: Neuropeptides and Animal Physiology

Subfield: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health