MAS Related GPR Member F (MRGPRF)

Mrgprf has 7 transmembrane domains and is most closely related to the human MAS1 oncogene, with which it shares 34% amino acid identity.Several pseudogenes were also identified. The predicted MRG proteins contain transmembrane, extracellular, and cytoplasmic domains. A subset of MRGs was expressed in specific subpopulations of sensory neurons that detect painful stimuli. The expression patterns of these genes thus revealed an unexpected degree of molecular diversity among nociceptive neurons. Some MRGs could be specifically activated in heterologous cells by RFamide neuropeptides, such as NPFF and NPAF, which are analgesic in vivo. The authors concluded that MRGs may regulate nociceptor function and/or development, including the sensation or modulation of pain.