Regulation and trafficking of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors

Neuropharmacology. 2018 Jul 1;136(Pt C):374-382. doi: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.11.017. Epub 2017 Nov 11.

Abstract

Fidelity of signal transduction relies on cells expressing the appropriate number of functional receptors. Fluctuation in the total number of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors has been implicated in a range of physiological and pathophysiological processes, and the mechanisms responsible for this regulation represent potential molecular targets for therapeutic intervention. This article will review the current literature on the endocytic trafficking of muscarinic receptors and how knowledge of the trafficking of related receptors might influence future studies. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Neuropharmacology on Muscarinic Receptors'.

Keywords: Down-regulation; Endocytosis; Receptor; Recycling; Trafficking.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Endocytosis
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Humans
  • Protein Transport
  • Receptors, Muscarinic / metabolism*

Substances

  • Receptors, Muscarinic