Rat Urotensin 2 Receptor (UTS2R) Protein

Background

UTS2R is a G protein-coupled receptor activated by urotensin 2 (U-2), a potent vasoconstrictor peptide involved in regulating cardiovascular function, particularly blood pressure and vascular tone. UTS2R couples to Gq proteins, activating phospholipase C (PLC) and increasing intracellular calcium levels, leading to vasoconstriction and modulation of smooth muscle contraction. Urotensin 2 is a critical mediator in the regulation of blood vessel function, and UTS2R’s expression in the vasculature suggests that it plays an important role in blood pressure homeostasis and vascular remodeling. Dysregulation of UTS2R signaling is associated with cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and heart failure. Antagonists of UTS2R are being explored for their therapeutic potential in treating conditions related to excessive vasoconstriction, including pulmonary arterial hypertension and atherosclerosis.