urotensin II receptor activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Combining with urotensin II to initiate a change in cell activity. [GOC:mah, PMID:15102493]

Urotensin II receptor activity is a molecular function associated with the binding of urotensin II (UII), a potent vasoconstrictor peptide, to its cognate receptor, the urotensin II receptor (UTR). This interaction initiates a signaling cascade that ultimately leads to various physiological effects, primarily related to cardiovascular regulation. UTR is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) belonging to the superfamily of rhodopsin-like receptors. Upon binding of UII, UTR undergoes conformational changes that activate intracellular signaling pathways. These pathways involve the coupling of UTR to heterotrimeric G proteins, primarily Gαq/11, which in turn activate phospholipase C (PLC). PLC catalyzes the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) into diacylglycerol (DAG) and inositol trisphosphate (IP3). DAG activates protein kinase C (PKC), while IP3 triggers the release of calcium ions (Ca2+) from intracellular stores. The increased intracellular calcium levels further activate downstream signaling cascades, including the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, leading to various cellular responses. The molecular function of urotensin II receptor activity is essential for mediating the vasoconstrictive effects of UII, contributing to blood pressure regulation, vascular remodeling, and other physiological processes. It also plays a role in the regulation of inflammation, angiogenesis, and cell growth.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (21)