Prokineticin Receptor 1 (PKR1)

The prokineticin receptor is a G-protein coupled receptor which binds the peptide hormone prokineticin. These receptors mediate gastrointestinal smooth muscle contraction and angiogenesis. There are two variants each encoded by a different gene. Prokineticin receptor 1 (also known as PKR1, or GPR73A), is encoded by the PROKR1 gene. GPR73A is a receptor for prokineticin 1. It is a member of the GPCR family and is coupled to the G(q) subclass of heteromeric G proteins. Activation of the receptor leads to mobilization of calcium, stimulation of phosphoinositide turnover and activation of p44/p42 mitogen-activated protein kinase. GPR73A expression has been reported in adrenal, peripheral blood leukocytes, brain, colon, pancreas, prostate, rectum, salivary gland, small intestine, spleen, stomach, testis, and thyroid.