Guanylate cyclase C receptor (GC-C)

Guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) is a type I transmembrane receptor with intrinsic guanylyl cyclase activity. It is predominantly expressed on the apical surface of intestinal epithelial cells, where it plays a central role in regulating fluid and electrolyte homeostasis in the gastrointestinal tract. Activation of GC-C leads to increased intracellular cGMP levels, which regulate downstream targets involved in ion transport and other cellular processes. GC-C is targeted therapeutically for conditions like chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation.

Other names

GUCY2C

GC-C agonists stimulate cGMP production, leading to increased chloride and bicarbonate secretion and decreased sodium absorption in the intestine, promoting fluid secretion and relieving constipation.