ADCYAP1R1
Understanding adcyap1r1: A Gene Linked to Liver Health and Beyond
Description
Adcyap1r1, also known as the pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide type 1 receptor, is a protein-coding gene that plays a critical role in regulating various physiological processes. It encodes the receptor for pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP), a neuropeptide involved in hormone secretion, smooth muscle relaxation, neurotransmission, and immune responses.
Associated Diseases
The disruption of adcyap1r1 function through mutations or alterations in gene expression has been associated with a range of medical conditions, including:
- Pituitary hormone deficiencies: Mutations in adcyap1r1 can impair growth hormone secretion, leading to growth hormone deficiency and stunted growth.
- Hypoparathyroidism: Adcyap1r1 mutations can disrupt calcium and phosphate regulation, resulting in hypoparathyroidism, a condition characterized by low calcium levels.
- Thyroid cancer: Altered adcyap1r1 expression has been linked to the development of thyroid carcinomas.
- Ovarian cancer: Reduced adcyap1r1 levels have been observed in certain types of ovarian cancer, suggesting a protective role against tumorigenesis.
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): Recent studies have implicated adcyap1r1 in the development and progression of NAFLD, the most common chronic liver disease worldwide.
Did you Know ?
In a study of patients with NAFLD, those with lower adcyap1r1 expression were more likely to have more severe liver inflammation and fibrosis, suggesting a protective role of the gene in liver health.