natriuretic peptide receptor activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Combining with a natriuretic peptide and transmitting the signal to initiate a change in cell activity. [GOC:mah, GOC:signaling]

Natriuretic peptide receptors (NPRs) are transmembrane proteins that play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure, fluid balance, and cardiovascular function. They bind to natriuretic peptides, a family of hormones that include atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP).

NPRs are characterized by a unique structural organization consisting of a ligand-binding extracellular domain, a transmembrane domain, and an intracellular domain with guanylyl cyclase activity. Upon binding to natriuretic peptides, NPRs undergo conformational changes that activate their guanylyl cyclase activity. This activation leads to the production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), a second messenger molecule. cGMP then activates downstream signaling pathways that mediate the physiological effects of natriuretic peptides.

The molecular function of natriuretic peptide receptor activity can be summarized as follows:

1. **Ligand Binding:** NPRs bind to natriuretic peptides with high specificity and affinity. This interaction initiates a signaling cascade.

2. **Guanylyl Cyclase Activation:** Upon ligand binding, the intracellular domain of NPRs undergoes a conformational change, activating its guanylyl cyclase activity. This results in the conversion of GTP to cGMP.

3. **cGMP Production and Signaling:** The increased intracellular concentration of cGMP activates downstream signaling pathways. cGMP binds to and activates protein kinase G (PKG), which in turn phosphorylates various target proteins involved in regulating cellular functions.

4. **Physiological Effects:** The activation of NPRs and subsequent downstream signaling pathways mediate the physiological effects of natriuretic peptides, including:
- **Vasodilation:** NPRs induce vasodilation by relaxing smooth muscle cells in blood vessels.
- **Natriuresis and Diuresis:** NPRs promote the excretion of sodium and water from the body, leading to a reduction in blood volume and pressure.
- **Cardiac Remodeling:** NPRs play a role in regulating cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis.
- **Anti-proliferative Effects:** NPRs inhibit the proliferation of smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts.

In summary, natriuretic peptide receptor activity involves ligand binding, guanylyl cyclase activation, cGMP production, and subsequent downstream signaling pathways that regulate a variety of physiological processes related to cardiovascular function, fluid balance, and cell growth.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (5)