Neuropeptides B and W receptor 2 (NPBWR2 (also known as NPBW2; previous symbol: GPR8))

Neuropeptides B and W receptor 2 is a G protein-coupled receptor that binds and responds to neuropeptides B and W, with expression primarily in the frontal cortex and other CNS regions. It plays key regulatory roles in neuroendocrine signaling, modulation of feeding and energy balance, cardiovascular function, pain, and emotion. Structurally, it is homologous to opioid and somatostatin receptors but has specificity for the aforementioned neuropeptides. It is regarded as a valid therapeutic target, especially in research on appetite regulation, emotional modulation, and metabolic disease. No selective drugs for this receptor are approved, and the translational therapeutic implications are still largely investigational.

Other names

NPBWR2GPR8NPBW2Neuropeptide B/W receptor type 2NPB/W receptor 2

Ligand binding (neuropeptide B or W) activates the receptor, which is coupled to Gi proteins, affecting intracellular cAMP and signaling cascades Opioid and somatostatin-related signaling mechanisms due to structural similarity, though true selectivity is for neuropeptides B and W