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Updated: May 3, 2026

Genetically-encoded Molecular Probes to Study G Protein-coupled Receptors
Published on: September 13, 2013
Molecular evolution of GPCRs: 26Rfa/GPR103.
Kazuyoshi Ukena1, Tomohiro Osugi1, Jérôme Leprince1
1Section of Behavioral SciencesGraduate School of Integrated Arts and Sciences, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8521, JapanLaboratory of Integrative Brain SciencesDepartment of Biology, Center for Medical Life Science of Waseda University, Waseda University, 2-2 Wakamatsu-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8480, JapanINSERM U982Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine (IRIB), Normandy University, 76821 Mont-Saint-Aignan, France.
Neuropeptide 26RFa (QRFP) and its receptor GPR103 (QRFPR) regulate vital functions like food intake and energy balance across vertebrates. This review details their identification, localization, and diverse biological roles in mammals, birds, and fish.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Comparative Physiology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- RFamide peptides are characterized by the Arg-Phe-NH2 motif.
- Neuropeptide 26RFa (QRFP) is a recently discovered RFamide peptide in the vertebrate hypothalamus.
- It acts as a ligand for the G protein-coupled receptor GPR103 (QRFPR).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the identification, localization, and functions of the 26RFa/QRFP-QRFPR system in vertebrates.
- To consolidate current knowledge on this neuropeptide system's roles.
Main Methods:
- Characterization of cDNAs encoding 26RFa/QRFP and QRFPR in mammals, birds, and fish.
- Review of existing functional studies on the 26RFa/QRFP-QRFPR system.
Main Results:
- The 26RFa/QRFP-QRFPR system is conserved across mammals, birds, and fish.
- In mammals, this system influences food intake, energy homeostasis, bone formation, hormone secretion, steroidogenesis, pain, and blood pressure.
- Biological actions have also been documented in birds and fish.
Conclusions:
- The 26RFa/QRFP-QRFPR system plays a significant role in regulating diverse physiological functions in vertebrates.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate its complex roles across different species.
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