Work

The potential of P2X7 receptors as a therapeutic target, including inflammation and tumour progression

Year: 2017

Type: review

Abstract: Seven P2X ion channel nucleotide receptor subtypes have been cloned and characterised. P2X7 receptors (P2X7R) are unusual in that there are extra amino acids in the intracellular C terminus. Low concentrations of ATP open cation channels sometimes leading to cell proliferation, whereas high concentrations of ATP open large pores that release inflammatory cytokines and can lead to apoptotic cell death. Since many diseases involve inflammation and immune responses, and the P2X7R regulates inflammation, there has been recent interest in the pathophysiological roles of P2X7R and the potential of P2X7R antagonists to treat a variety of diseases. These include neurodegenerative diseases, psychiatric disorders, epilepsy and a number of diseases of peripheral organs, including the cardiovascular, airways, kidney, liver, bladder, skin and musculoskeletal. The potential of P2X7R drugs to treat tumour progression is discussed.

Source: Purinergic Signalling

DOI: 10.1007/s11302-017-9593-0

Authors: Geoffrey Burnstock, Gillian E. Knight

Institutions: The University of Melbourne, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University College London

Language: English

Topic: Adenosine and Purinergic Signaling

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,690