Characterization of a family of endogenous neuropeptide ligands for the G protein-coupled receptors GPR7 and GPR8.

GPR7 and GPR8 are orphan G protein-coupled receptors that are highly similar to each other. These receptors are expressed predominantly in brain, suggesting roles in central nervous system function. We have purified an endogenous peptide ligand for GPR7 from bovine hypothalamus extracts.

Tools for Investigating Functional Interactions Between Lipid-Derived Autacoids and their Receptors.

A method for rapidly evaluating functional interactions between ligands and G-protein--coupled receptors has been developed. The technology is based on the ability of animals to change color by controlling the position of pigmented organelles within skin cells called melanophores. cDNA coding for a receptor to be studied is expressed in immortalized frog melanophores.