receptor-receptor interaction

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

The aggregation, arrangement and bonding together of two or more different receptor complexes that individually undergo combination with a hormone, neurotransmitter, drug or intracellular messenger to form a higher level receptor complex. The formation of the higher level complex initiates a change in cell function. [GOC:dox, GOC:pad, GOC:PARL, PMID:22035699, PMID:24157794]

Receptor-receptor interaction is a fundamental process in cell signaling and communication. It involves the direct binding of two or more receptors, either of the same or different types, to initiate a signaling cascade. This interaction can lead to various downstream effects, including changes in gene expression, cell growth, differentiation, and migration.

**Mechanism of Receptor-Receptor Interaction:**

Receptors typically possess specific binding sites, known as ligand-binding domains, that recognize and bind to their respective ligands. In receptor-receptor interactions, these binding domains interact with each other, forming a complex that triggers downstream signaling. This interaction can be mediated by various molecular forces, such as electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and hydrophobic interactions.

**Types of Receptor-Receptor Interactions:**

* **Homodimerization:** Two identical receptors bind to each other.
* **Heterodimerization:** Two different receptors bind to each other.
* **Oligomerization:** More than two receptors bind to form a complex.

**Signaling Pathways Activated by Receptor-Receptor Interactions:**

Once the receptors interact, they can activate a variety of signaling pathways. Common pathways include:

* **MAPK pathway:** This pathway regulates cell growth, differentiation, and survival.
* **PI3K-Akt pathway:** This pathway regulates cell survival, growth, and metabolism.
* **JAK-STAT pathway:** This pathway regulates gene expression and cell differentiation.

**Examples of Receptor-Receptor Interactions:**

* **Growth factor receptors:** These receptors bind to growth factors and activate signaling pathways that promote cell growth and proliferation.
* **Cytokine receptors:** These receptors bind to cytokines, which are signaling molecules involved in immune responses and inflammation.
* **G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs):** These receptors are involved in a wide variety of cellular processes, including sensory perception, neurotransmission, and hormone signaling.

**Biological Significance:**

Receptor-receptor interactions play a crucial role in a wide range of biological processes, including:

* **Cell-cell communication:** They allow cells to communicate with each other and coordinate their activities.
* **Development:** They are involved in the development and differentiation of tissues and organs.
* **Immune responses:** They play a critical role in immune responses by mediating interactions between immune cells.
* **Disease pathogenesis:** Dysregulation of receptor-receptor interactions can contribute to the development of various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and neurological disorders.

**Therapeutic Applications:**

Understanding receptor-receptor interactions has led to the development of various therapeutic strategies, including:

* **Drugs that target receptor interactions:** These drugs can block or enhance receptor-receptor interactions to treat diseases.
* **Biologics that mimic receptor interactions:** These biologics can activate or inhibit specific signaling pathways to treat diseases.

**Conclusion:**

Receptor-receptor interactions are essential for cell signaling and communication. These interactions regulate a wide range of biological processes, making them critical for normal cell function and disease pathogenesis. Further research into these interactions will continue to provide insights into cell biology and lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies.'
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Proteins (3)

Compounds (512)