Relaxin-3 (RLN3)

Relaxin-3 (RLN3) is a highly conserved neuropeptide hormone in the relaxin/insulin superfamily, consisting of two chains (A and B), with major expression in the nucleus incertus of the brainstem[1][2][3][4][5]. Functioning primarily through the relaxin family peptide 3 receptor (RXFP3), relaxin-3 is a key modulator of arousal, stress response, feeding/metabolism, and cognitive processes, with broad neuronal projections throughout the extended limbic system and septohippocampal pathways[1][2][3][4]. Its role in the central nervous system implicates it as a promising target for neuropsychiatric, stress-related, and metabolic disorders, including depression, anxiety, and addiction, with ongoing research into RXFP3 agonists and antagonists as potential therapeutic agents [1][2][3][4][5].

Other names

Relaxin-3Relaxin-3 B chainRelaxin-3 A chainRLN3INSL7RXN3ZINS4Insulin-like peptide 7H3Prorelaxin H3insl7

Agonists: Mimic relaxin-3 action on RXFP3 receptor, activating downstream signaling involved in neural modulation. Antagonists: Block relaxin-3 activity at RXFP3, potentially modulating stress, feeding, or arousal pathways.