Prostaglandin D2 receptor (PTGDR (for DP1), PTGDR2 (for DP2/CRTH2))

The **Prostaglandin D₂ receptors** comprise two main subtypes—DP₁ (PTGDR) and DP₂ (PTGDR2/CRTH2)—both of which are **G protein-coupled receptors** that bind prostaglandin D₂. These receptors play key roles in mediating inflammatory responses by regulating immune cell migration, cytokine release, vasodilation, bronchoconstriction, and other processes central to allergic diseases like asthma. The **DP₁** subtype is primarily linked with anti-inflammatory effects such as inhibition of dendritic cell migration and promotion of eosinophil apoptosis; it signals via Gs proteins to increase cAMP levels. The **DP₂/CRTH2** subtype is more closely associated with pro-inflammatory actions including stimulation of Th2 cells and eosinophils through Gi protein coupling that decreases cAMP levels. Both subtypes have been implicated in a range of pathologies from respiratory diseases like asthma to neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease—and even hair loss—making them important therapeutic targets for drug development.

Other names

DP1 receptorPTGDRProstaglandin D2 receptor 1DP2 receptorCRTH2 (chemoattractant receptor-homologous molecule expressed on Th2 cells)GPR44CD294

Drugs targeting this molecule typically act as antagonists to block prostaglandin D₂ binding at either the DP₁ or DP₂/CRTH₂ receptors, thereby inhibiting downstream pro-inflammatory signaling pathways involved in allergy, asthma, and other immune responses. Some drugs may also act as agonists to modulate physiological functions such as vasodilation or immune cell recruitment.