NMUR - Neuromedin U receptor | Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background:

Neuromedin U Receptors (NMUR) are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that bind to neuromedin U (NMU), a peptide hormone involved in various physiological processes, including regulation of energy homeostasis, gastrointestinal function, stress responses, and cardiovascular function. NMURs are expressed in multiple tissues, including the central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and peripheral organs.

The primary ligands for NMURs are neuromedin U (NMU) peptides, including NMU-25 and NMU-8. These peptides bind to NMURs and activate intracellular signaling pathways, leading to various physiological responses.

Structural Features:

NMURs, 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 initiate intracellular signaling upon receptor activation.

Subtypes and Classification:

There are two subtypes of Neuromedin U receptors: NMUR1 and NMUR2. These subtypes share significant sequence homology but exhibit differences in tissue distribution and signaling properties.

1.   NMUR1: Predominantly expressed in the central nervous system, particularly in regions involved in the regulation of appetite, stress responses, and autonomic function.

2.   NMUR2: Expressed in peripheral tissues, including the gastrointestinal tract, adipose tissue, and immune cells. It plays a role in regulating gastrointestinal motility, immune function, and metabolic processes.

Physiological Functions:

Neuromedin U receptors mediate a wide range of physiological functions, including:

• Regulation of appetite and energy homeostasis: NMUR1 in the brain regulates feeding behavior and energy expenditure, while NMUR2 in peripheral tissues influences metabolism and adipose tissue function.
• Gastrointestinal function: NMURs regulate gastrointestinal motility, secretion, and absorption, affecting digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Stress responses: NMUR1 in the brain is involved in modulating stress responses and anxiety-like behaviors.
• Immune function: NMUR2 in immune cells regulates immune responses and inflammation.

Clinical Implications

Dysregulation of Neuromedin U receptor signaling has been implicated in various disorders and conditions, including obesity, gastrointestinal disorders, stress-related disorders, and inflammatory diseases. Alterations in NMUR expression or function can disrupt normal physiological processes, contributing to disease pathogenesis.

Therapeutic Potential:

Neuromedin U receptors have emerged as potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of obesity, gastrointestinal disorders, stress-related disorders, and inflammatory diseases. Modulating NMUR signaling with agonists or antagonists could offer therapeutic benefits by regulating appetite, gastrointestinal function, stress responses, and immune function. Several pharmacological agents targeting NMURs are currently under investigation in preclinical and clinical studies as potential therapeutics. Selective modulation of specific Neuromedin U receptor subtypes may help minimize side effects and maximize therapeutic efficacy.