P2 receptors
P2 receptors are a type of cell surface receptor that respond to extracellular nucleotides, such as ATP and ADP. They are part of the purinergic signaling system, which plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including inflammation, pain perception, and cell communication. P2 receptors are divided into two main subtypes: P2X, which are ion channels, and P2Y, which are G protein-coupled receptors.
These receptors are found in many tissues throughout the body, including the brain, heart, and immune system. Activation of P2 receptors can lead to various cellular responses, such as changes in ion flow, neurotransmitter release, and modulation of immune responses. Understanding P2 receptors is important for developing new treatments for diseases related to inflammation and pain.