Prostaglandin E2 receptor EP3 (EP3)

Prostaglandin E2 receptor EP3 is a G protein-coupled receptor for prostaglandin E2, mediating diverse physiological and pathological effects through its ability to couple to multiple G proteins. EP3 activation leads to inhibition of adenylyl cyclase, modulation of intracellular calcium, and regulation of cellular responses such as proliferation, apoptosis, and insulin secretion. EP3 is widely expressed in human tissues—including kidney, stomach, brain, pancreas, vascular smooth muscle, and immune cells—and plays roles in inflammation, pain signaling, metabolic regulation, and cancer. The receptor is a therapeutic target for conditions including diabetes, inflammatory pain, and potentially cancer, with both agonists and antagonists under investigation as pharmacological modulators of EP3-dependent pathways.

Other names

EP3PTGER3Prostaglandin E receptor 3EP3 receptor

EP3 agonists activate inhibitory G proteins (Gi), suppressing adenylyl cyclase, lowering cAMP, and modulating calcium signaling. EP3 antagonists block receptor signaling, which can restore β-cell mass and function in diabetes. EP3 receptor agonism or antagonism can influence pain perception—agonists may provide analgesia in conditions of inflammatory pain.