Calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor
Calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor (pronunciation: kal-si-toh-nin jeen-ree-lay-ted pep-tide ree-sep-tor) is a G protein-coupled receptor that in humans is encoded by the CALCRL gene.
Etymology
The term "Calcitonin" is derived from the Latin calx or calcis meaning "lime" due to its ability to quickly lower blood calcium levels. The "gene-related peptide" part of the name refers to the fact that the calcitonin gene can be alternatively spliced to create a peptide with different functions.
Function
The calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor is a complex of a G protein-coupled receptor called CALCRL and a single transmembrane domain protein called receptor activity-modifying protein 1 (RAMP1). This receptor is involved in the transmission of pain signals from peripheral sensory neurons to the central nervous system. It is also involved in vasodilation, or the widening of blood vessels.
Clinical significance
The calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor is a target for new migraine therapies. Drugs that block this receptor, known as CGRP receptor antagonists, can prevent migraines. Examples of these drugs include erenumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab.
Related terms
- Calcitonin: A hormone produced by the thyroid gland that lowers blood calcium levels.
- Gene-related peptide: A peptide produced by alternative splicing of the calcitonin gene.
- G protein-coupled receptor: A large family of cell surface receptors that respond to a variety of external signals.
- Receptor activity-modifying protein 1: A protein that forms a complex with the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor.
See also
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