N-formyl peptide receptor activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Combining with an N-formyl peptide to initiate a change in cell activity. [GOC:ai]

N-formyl peptide receptor activity is a crucial molecular function in innate immunity, particularly in the detection and response to bacterial infections. It involves the recognition and binding of N-formyl peptides, which are small peptides containing a formyl group at their N-terminus. These peptides are primarily found in bacteria and are absent in mammalian cells, making them unique markers of bacterial presence. N-formyl peptide receptors (FPRs) are a family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that exhibit high affinity for N-formyl peptides. Upon binding, these receptors activate a signaling cascade involving the heterotrimeric G protein, leading to the production of intracellular signaling molecules like inositol triphosphate (IP3) and diacylglycerol (DAG). This triggers a series of downstream events, including the mobilization of intracellular calcium, activation of protein kinase C (PKC), and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These events contribute to the host's immune response by promoting leukocyte chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and the release of inflammatory mediators. The overall effect of N-formyl peptide receptor activity is to enhance the recruitment of immune cells to the site of infection, facilitating the clearance of bacteria and the resolution of inflammation.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (8)