Melatonin Receptor MT2 (MT2)

The melatonin receptor MT2 is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that binds the neurohormone melatonin. It plays a crucial role in regulating circadian rhythms, sleep, mood, and other physiological processes. MT2 primarily couples to Gi proteins, inhibiting adenylyl cyclase and decreasing cAMP levels. It is expressed in the retina, skin, osteoblasts, and reticular thalamus, and its activation regulates processes such as circadian phase-shifting, NREM sleep, retinal adaptation, bone metabolism, and glucose homeostasis. MT2 is a therapeutic target for drugs treating insomnia, non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder, depression, and pain.

Other names

Melatonin receptor type 2Melatonin receptor 1BMTNR1B

Agonism (Ramelteon, Tasimelteon, Agomelatine) leading to Gi protein activation, inhibition of adenylyl cyclase, decreased cAMP, and PKC activation.