Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptor (Peripheral) (mAChR (Peripheral))

Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) are a family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that mediate the actions of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in peripheral tissues. Primarily responsible for transmitting signals from postganglionic fibers of the parasympathetic nervous system, regulating a wide range of physiological functions including heart rate, smooth muscle contraction, and glandular secretion. There are five known subtypes: M1, M2, M3, M4, and M5. Each is encoded by a separate gene and exhibits distinct tissue distribution and physiological roles. Odd-numbered subtypes (M1, M3, M5) typically couple to Gq/11 proteins leading to phospholipase C activation, while even-numbered subtypes (M2, M4) typically couple to Gi/o proteins leading to inhibition of adenylyl cyclase and decreased cAMP production.

Other names

Peripheral Muscarinic ReceptormAChRMuscarinic Receptor

Activation of G proteins leading to phospholipase C activation (Gq/11) or inhibition of adenylyl cyclase (Gi/o), depending on the receptor subtype.