LPA receptors: subtypes and biological actions

Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol. 2010:50:157-86. doi: 10.1146/annurev.pharmtox.010909.105753.

Abstract

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a small, ubiquitous phospholipid that acts as an extracellular signaling molecule by binding to and activating at least five known G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs): LPA(1)-LPA(5). They are encoded by distinct genes named LPAR1-LPAR5 in humans and Lpar1-Lpar5 in mice. The biological roles of LPA are diverse and include developmental, physiological, and pathophysiological effects. This diversity is mediated by broad and overlapping expression patterns and multiple downstream signaling pathways activated by cognate LPA receptors. Studies using cloned receptors and genetic knockout mice have been instrumental in uncovering the significance of this signaling system, notably involving basic cellular processes as well as multiple organ systems such as the nervous system. This has further provided valuable proof-of-concept data to support LPA receptors and LPA metabolic enzymes as targets for the treatment of medically important diseases that include neuropsychiatric disorders, neuropathic pain, infertility, cardiovascular disease, inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cardiovascular Physiological Phenomena
  • Fibrosis
  • Humans
  • Immune System / physiology
  • Lysophospholipids / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / etiology
  • Nervous System Physiological Phenomena
  • Obesity / etiology
  • Receptors, Lysophosphatidic Acid / agonists
  • Receptors, Lysophosphatidic Acid / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Receptors, Lysophosphatidic Acid / classification*
  • Receptors, Lysophosphatidic Acid / physiology*
  • Reproduction
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Lysophospholipids
  • Receptors, Lysophosphatidic Acid
  • lysophosphatidic acid