Neurotransmitter G Protein-Coupled Receptors

Neurotransmitters act as ligands for many G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) well known for modulating neural activity. For instance, the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate signals via metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs), while the inhibitory transmitter GABA signals through the GABA-B GPCR subtype. Other examples where GPCR-mediated activities regulate neurotransmitter function include serotonin receptors (5HTRs) that affect mood, appetite, and sleep, cannabinoid receptors that regulate respiratory and cardiovascular functions, and opioid receptors that are powerful analgesics. Cannabinoid and opioid receptors have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.