Substance P receptor, also known as NK1 receptor, is a type of cell surface receptor that is involved in the transmission of pain signals in the body. It is a member of the G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) family and is primarily found in the central and peripheral nervous system.
Substance P, a neuropeptide, plays a critical role in the mediation of pain, neuroinflammation, and neurogenic responses. When released, substance P binds to the substance P receptor, initiating a series of cellular events that ultimately result in the transmission of pain signals to the brain.
The substance P receptor consists of seven transmembrane domains that span the cell membrane. It has an extracellular N-terminal region where substance P binds, and an intracellular C-terminal region that interacts with G-proteins. Upon activation by substance P, the receptor undergoes conformational changes, leading to the activation of intracellular signaling pathways.
The activation of substance P receptors is associated with a range of physiological processes, including pain perception, vasodilation, neurogenic inflammation, and regulation of neurotransmitter release. Due to its involvement in pain signaling, substance P receptors have been a target for the development of analgesic drugs.
Overall, substance P receptors play a crucial role in the transmission and modulation of pain signals in the body. Understanding their function and regulation has important implications for the development of therapeutics targeting pain and inflammatory disorders.
