Corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 2 (CRF2) (CRF2)

The Corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 2 (CRF2) is a member of the Class B G protein-coupled receptor family, primarily recognized for its role in the physiological response to stress and the maintenance of homeostasis (Source: UniProt Q13324). Unlike the closely related CRF1 receptor, which is the primary mediator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, CRF2 is activated predominantly by urocortins 2 and 3 and is expressed in both the brain and peripheral tissues like the heart and skeletal muscle (Source: PubMed PMID: 15740626). In the cardiovascular system, CRF2 activation promotes vasodilation and increases cardiac contractility, making it a target of interest for treating acute heart failure (Source: PubMed PMID: 21145459). Centrally, CRF2 signaling is involved in modulating anxiety-like behaviors and suppressing appetite, though its effects can be complex and sometimes oppose those of CRF1 (Source: PubMed PMID: 12662345). Therapeutic development has focused on CRF2 agonists for cardiovascular and metabolic benefits, while antagonists are investigated for their potential to treat stress-induced gastrointestinal and psychiatric disorders (Source: PubMed PMID: 25108367).

Other names

CRHR2CRH-R2Corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 2CRF-R2CRFR2

Agonism of the receptor typically couples to Gs proteins, stimulating adenylyl cyclase and increasing intracellular cAMP levels, which mediates downstream physiological effects like vasodilation and positive inotropy.