Tachykinin receptor 2 (NK2R) (NK2R)

The Tachykinin receptor 2 (NK2R), encoded by the TACR2 gene, is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that selectively binds the tachykinin neuropeptide neurokinin A (NKA) (UniProt: P21452). It is highly expressed in the smooth muscle layers of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the respiratory system, where it mediates excitatory signals leading to muscle contraction and increased motility (IUPHAR/BPS Guide to Pharmacology). In the GI system, NK2R activation is a key driver of peristalsis and visceral sensation; consequently, its overactivity is linked to the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), particularly the diarrhea-predominant subtype (IBS-D) (PMID: 22982101). Beyond the gut, NK2R plays a role in bronchoconstriction, making it a target of interest for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (PMID: 15504044). Therapeutic strategies focus on selective NK2R antagonists, such as ibodutant and saredutant, which are designed to alleviate symptoms like abdominal pain and urgency by normalizing intestinal transit (PubChem CID: 11511134). While these agents have shown potential in clinical trials for GI disorders, their development has been marked by variable efficacy, leading to ongoing research into more specific patient stratification and biomarker use.

Other names

Neurokinin 2 receptorNeurokinin A receptorTACR2NK-2 receptorTachykinin receptor 2

Tachykinin NK2 receptor antagonism