Human Corticotropin Releasing Hormone Receptor 2 (CRHR2) Protein

Background

CRHR2 is a G protein-coupled receptor that binds CRH and urocortins (urocortin 2 and urocortin 3), with roles in modulating stress responses, cardiovascular function, and energy homeostasis. CRHR2 is expressed in peripheral tissues, including the heart, gastrointestinal tract, and vasculature, as well as in specific brain regions such as the hypothalamus and brainstem. Unlike CRHR1, CRHR2 is more involved in stress recovery and adaptation, mediating anti-stress effects by regulating heart rate, vascular tone, and feeding behaviors. CRHR2 activation triggers signaling pathways such as cAMP/PKA and MAPK, which regulate cell proliferation, relaxation of smooth muscle, and metabolic homeostasis. It plays a protective role in cardiovascular function, where its activation reduces blood pressure and cardiac stress. CRHR2 is also involved in regulating appetite suppression and energy expenditure, making it a potential target for obesity and metabolic disorders. Dysregulation of CRHR2 has been linked to stress-related disorders, heart disease, and gastrointestinal dysfunction. In cancer, CRHR2 may modulate tumor progression through its effects on angiogenesis and stress pathways. CRHR2 agonists and antagonists are under investigation for their therapeutic potential in cardiovascular disease, metabolic dysfunctions, and stress-related psychiatric disorders, highlighting its role in recovery from physiological and psychological stress.