G Protein Coupled Receptor 149 (GPR149)

Gpr149, a novel, oocyte-enriched transcript that encodes a predicted orphan G-protein-coupled receptor (GPR). Gpr149 is highly expressed in the ovary and also in the brain and the digestive tract at low levels. Gpr149 levels are low in newborn ovaries but increase throughout folliculogenesis. Gpr149 expression declined, becoming undetectable by the two-cell stage. Gpr149 null mice are viable and have normal folliculogenesis, but demonstrate increased fertility, enhanced ovulation, increased oocyte Gdf9 mRNA levels, and increased levels of FSH receptor and cyclin D2 mRNA levels in granulosa cells.Gpr149 null mice are one of the few models with enhanced fertility, and GPR149 could be a target for small molecules to enhance fertility in the assisted reproductive technology clinic.