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Updated: Apr 27, 2026
11:49
Characterization of G Protein-coupled Receptors by a Fluorescence-based Calcium Mobilization Assay
Published on: July 28, 2014
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GPR55: from orphan to metabolic regulator?
Bo Liu1, Shuang Song1, Peter M Jones1
1Diabetes Research Group, Division of Diabetes & Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK.
Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|June 28, 2014
Summary
G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55) influences energy balance by regulating appetite, fat storage, and insulin secretion. Understanding GPR55
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolism
- Pharmacology
Background:
- G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55) is a class A receptor activated by cannabinoids and lipid derivatives.
- Cannabinoids play a role in appetite control and metabolic balance.
- Emerging evidence suggests GPR55 involvement in energy homeostasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the expression and function of GPR55 in metabolic regulation.
- To explore GPR55 signaling pathways.
- To discuss challenges in GPR55 research due to ligand specificity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of GPR55 expression and function.
- Analysis of signaling cascades associated with GPR55.
- Critical evaluation of GPR55 ligand specificity.
Main Results:
- GPR55 is expressed in tissues crucial for metabolic regulation.
- GPR55 influences food intake, adipocyte fuel storage, gut motility, and insulin secretion.
- Lack of specific ligands complicates definitive conclusions about GPR55 function.
Conclusions:
- GPR55 plays a role in regulating energy homeostasis.
- Targeting GPR55 may offer new therapeutic strategies for obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
- Further research with specific ligands is needed to fully elucidate GPR55's role.
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