MLNR - Motilin receptor | Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background:

The Motilin Receptor (MLNR) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that binds to motilin, a peptide hormone involved in the regulation of gastrointestinal motility. Motilin receptors are primarily found in the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract and play a crucial role in coordinating the contractions of the stomach and small intestine, particularly during the interdigestive phase.The primary ligand for MLNR is motilin, a 22-amino acid peptide hormone secreted by endocrine cells in the duodenum and jejunum. Motilin binds to MLNR and initiates signaling pathways that regulate gastrointestinal motility.

Structural Features:

MLNR, like other GPCRs, possesses seven transmembrane domains, an extracellular N-terminus, and an intracellular C-terminus. These receptors also contain binding sites for G proteins, which initiate intracellular signaling upon receptor activation.

Physiological Functions:

MLNR is primarily involved in regulating gastrointestinal motility, particularly during the interdigestive phase. The interdigestive phase occurs between meals and is characterized by cyclic contractions of the stomach and small intestine, known as the migrating motor complex (MMC). Motilin released during this phase binds to MLNR, stimulating smooth muscle contractions and facilitating gastric emptying and intestinal transit. MLNR activation also promotes the relaxation of the sphincter of Oddi, facilitating bile flow into the duodenum.

Clinical Implications:

Dysregulation of MLNR signaling has been implicated in various gastrointestinal motility disorders, including gastroparesis, functional dyspepsia, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Alterations in MLNR expression or function can disrupt normal gastrointestinal motility patterns, leading to symptoms such as delayed gastric emptying, abdominal discomfort, and altered bowel habits.

Therapeutic Potential:

MLNR has emerged as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of gastrointestinal motility disorders. Modulating MLNR signaling with agonists or antagonists could offer therapeutic benefits by restoring normal gastrointestinal motility patterns. Several pharmacological agents targeting MLNR are currently under investigation in preclinical and clinical studies as potential therapeutics for gastrointestinal motility disorders. Selective modulation of MLNR signaling holds the potential to provide targeted therapy with minimal off-target effects on other physiological processes.