Melanocortin Receptor 2 (MC2R)

Melanocortin receptor 2 (MC2R), also known as the adrenocorticotropic hormone receptor (ACTHR), is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that mediates the effects of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). It is primarily expressed in the adrenal cortex, where it plays a critical role in steroidogenesis, specifically glucocorticoid synthesis and secretion. Functional expression requires co-expression with MRAP (Melanocortin 2 Receptor Accessory Protein).

Other names

ACTHRAdrenocorticotropic Hormone ReceptorMelanocortin 2 Receptor

Agonist binding activates adenylyl cyclase via Gs proteins, increasing intracellular cAMP levels, leading to activation of protein kinase A (PKA) and subsequent stimulation of glucocorticoid production.