MTNR - Melatonin Receptor | Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background:

Melatonin receptors (MTNR) are a class of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that mediate the biological effects of melatonin, a hormone primarily produced by the pineal gland. Melatonin receptors are widely distributed throughout the body and play essential roles in regulating circadian rhythms, sleep-wake cycles, and other physiological processes. Melatonin receptors were first identified in the 1980s and subsequently cloned and characterized. These receptors are activated by melatonin, which is synthesized and released in response to the light-dark cycle, with peak levels occurring during the night.

The primary ligand for melatonin receptors is melatonin, which is synthesized and released by the pineal gland in response to the light-dark cycle. Melatonin binds to and activates MT1 and MT2 receptors, initiating intracellular signaling pathways.

Structural Features:

Melatonin receptors, like other GPCRs, possess seven transmembrane domains, an extracellular N-terminus, and an intracellular C-terminus. They also contain binding sites for G proteins, which mediate downstream signaling upon receptor activation. Two main subtypes of melatonin receptors have been identified and characterized: MT1 (Melatonin Receptor 1) and MT2 (Melatonin Receptor 2).

Subtypes and Classification:

There are two main subtypes of melatonin receptors:

1.   MT1 (Melatonin Receptor 1): Encoded by the MTNR1A gene, MT1 receptors are primarily expressed in the brain, retina, and peripheral tissues. They play a crucial role in mediating the effects of melatonin on circadian rhythms, sleep induction, and other physiological processes.

2.   MT2 (Melatonin Receptor 2): Encoded by the MTNR1B gene, MT2 receptors are also widely expressed in the brain, retina, and peripheral tissues. They are involved in regulating circadian rhythms, sleep, and other biological functions, often overlapping with the functions of MT1 receptors.

Physiological Functions:

Melatonin receptors play diverse roles in regulating physiological processes, including:

• Regulation of circadian rhythms: Melatonin receptors help synchronize biological rhythms with the light-dark cycle, regulating sleep-wake cycles, hormone secretion, and other rhythmic processes.
• Sleep induction: Activation of melatonin receptors promotes sleep onset and maintenance, contributing to the regulation of sleep patterns and duration.
• Modulation of mood and behavior: Melatonin receptors may influence mood, cognition, and behavior through their effects on circadian rhythms and sleep.
• Regulation of reproductive function: Melatonin receptors are involved in regulating reproductive hormones and processes, including gonadal function and reproductive behavior.

Clinical Implications:

Dysregulation of melatonin receptor signaling has been implicated in various disorders and conditions, including sleep disorders, mood disorders, circadian rhythm disorders, and reproductive disorders. Alterations in melatonin receptor expression or function can disrupt normal physiological processes, leading to pathological conditions.

Therapeutic Potential:

Melatonin receptors have therapeutic potential as targets for the treatment of sleep disorders, circadian rhythm disorders, mood disorders, and other conditions. Modulating melatonin receptor signaling with agonists or antagonists could offer therapeutic benefits by regulating sleep patterns, mood, and circadian rhythms. Several pharmacological agents targeting melatonin receptors are currently available or under investigation for the treatment of sleep disorders and other conditions. Selective modulation of specific melatonin receptor subtypes may help minimize side effects and maximize therapeutic efficacy.