Corticotropin-releasing factor receptors and stress-related alterations of gut motor function
Yvette Taché, Bruno Bonaz
Yvette Taché, Bruno Bonaz
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Corticotropin-releasing factor receptors and stress-related alterations of gut motor function

Abstract

Over the past few decades, corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) signaling pathways have been shown to be the main coordinators of the endocrine, behavioral, and immune responses to stress. Emerging evidence also links the activation of CRF receptors type 1 and type 2 with stress-related alterations of gut motor function. Here, we review the role of CRF receptors in both the brain and the gut as part of key mechanisms through which various stressors impact propulsive activity of the gastrointestinal system. We also examine how these mechanisms translate into the development of new approaches for irritable bowel syndrome, a multifactorial disorder for which stress has been implicated in the pathophysiology.

Authors

Yvette Taché, Bruno Bonaz

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Figure 1

Overview of the family of peptides related to CRF and their receptors and receptor antagonists.

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Overview of the family of peptides related to CRF and their receptors an...
CRF was the first peptide isolated of a family of mammalian CRF-related peptides that now includes urocortin 1, urocortin 2, and urocortin 3. CRF can bind either of 2 CRF receptors, CRF receptor type 1 (CRF1) or CRF receptor type 2 (CRF2), although it has a preferential affinity for CRF1. By contrast, urocortin 1 has equal affinity for both receptors, and urocortin 2 and urocortin 3 are selective ligands for CRF2 receptors. Both CRF receptors share 70% similarity and belong to the 7–transmembrane-G protein–coupled superfamily. CRF1-selective antagonists are small nonpeptide molecules, while nonselective and CRF2 antagonists are peptides.