Biological Activity
GPRC5B (G protein-coupled receptor, class C, group 5, member B) is an orphan receptor, and is thought to be involved in Wnt signaling. The expression of this protein, when suppressed in spinal cord neurons, leads to alterations in the activation of microglial cells. This down-regulation is also associated with neuropathic pain. The intracellular trafficking of this protein via exosomes, leads to cellular outward growth in a hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-dependent manner. It also acts as a marker to determine the degree of acute kidney injury (AKI). In type-2 diabetes, the expression of this protein is elevated, which results in decreased β-cell viability and secretion of insulin. Thus, it might have potential as a therapeutic target for type-2 diabetes. It also has a role in adipose signaling, and thus is associated with diet-associated obesity. It also links obesity to type-2 diabetes.
