Motilin Receptor (MLNR) Antibody

Background

The motilin receptor (MLNR) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) primarily expressed in the gastrointestinal tract, where it is activated by motilin, a 22-amino acid peptide hormone. MLNR is predominantly located in the smooth muscle of the stomach and upper small intestine, where it regulates gastrointestinal motility and the migrating motor complex (MMC) during fasting. Activation of MLNR triggers Gq-mediated signaling pathways, leading to increased intracellular calcium levels, smooth muscle contraction, and enhanced peristalsis. MLNR plays a key role in initiating gastric emptying and maintaining gut motility. It is a critical target for prokinetic agents such as erythromycin, which mimic motilin's action to stimulate gastric motility in conditions like gastroparesis. Dysregulation of MLNR is associated with gastrointestinal motility disorders, including delayed gastric emptying and functional dyspepsia. MLNR agonists continue to be explored for therapeutic applications to restore gut motility and improve gastrointestinal function in motility-related disorders.