Rat Apelin Receptor (APLNR) Protein

Background

The Apelin receptor (APLNR), also known as angiotensin receptor-like 1 (APJ), is a G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that binds the apelin peptide ligand. APLNR is involved in numerous physiological processes, particularly in the cardiovascular system, where it regulates heart development, blood pressure, and vascular tone. Apelin signaling via APLNR enhances cardiac contractility and contributes to angiogenesis, promoting the formation of new blood vessels during tissue growth or injury. It plays a protective role in heart failure by reducing cardiac hypertrophy and improving ejection fraction. Additionally, the apelin/APLNR pathway is critical for fluid homeostasis and water balance, as it regulates vasopressin release in the hypothalamus. In the central nervous system, APLNR influences neuroprotection and neurodevelopment, modulating processes like neuronal survival and axon growth. The receptor is also significant in metabolic regulation, as it improves insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake, highlighting its relevance to obesity and type 2 diabetes. Dysregulation of APLNR signaling is associated with hypertension, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and pre-eclampsia, conditions related to abnormal vascular function. Furthermore, it has been implicated in cancer progression, where it enhances tumor angiogenesis and promotes tumor cell migration. APLNR's diverse roles in cardiovascular health, neurobiology, and metabolism make it a promising therapeutic target for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.