[Molecular biology of prostaglandin E receptors--expression of multi-function by PGE receptor subtypes and isoforms]

Abstract

We reviewed the recent advance in the molecular characterization of prostaglandin E(PGE) receptor. PGE exerts versatile actions in diverse tissues and cells through specific cell surface receptors. PGE receptors(EP) consist of 4 subtypes(EP1, EP2, EP3 and EP4), which differ in the couple of signal transduction. In addition, at least three isoforms of EP3 are produced through alternative RNA splicing from a single gene and differ only in the efficiency of G protein activation and in the specificity of coupling to G proteins. These subtypes and isoforms express and function in specific tissues and cells in various organs, in where they mediate a variety of PGE2-induced physiological responses.