Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptor M4 (CHRM4) Antibody

Background

CHRM4 encodes the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M4, a member of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family that predominantly couples with Gi/o proteins. When activated by acetylcholine, CHRM4 inhibits adenylate cyclase, leading to a decrease in intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels and subsequent regulation of cellular excitability. CHRM4 is widely expressed in the central nervous system (CNS), particularly in regions like the striatum, basal ganglia, and hippocampus, where it plays a pivotal role in dopaminergic signaling and motor control. CHRM4 is a crucial modulator of dopamine release and has gained interest as a therapeutic target for disorders such as Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and addiction. In preclinical models, CHRM4 activation has been shown to suppress dopamine overactivity, which is associated with psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia. CHRM4 also plays roles in mood regulation, cognition, and neuromodulation by influencing cholinergic-dopaminergic interactions. Genetic variations in CHRM4 may affect susceptibility to neuropsychiatric diseases. Pharmacologically, CHRM4-selective agonists are under exploration for their ability to normalize dopamine levels, while antagonists have been evaluated for their effects on smooth muscle tone in peripheral tissues.