Commentary: GPR160 De-Orphanization Reveals Critical Roles in Neuropathic Pain in Rodents (Finally, a Receptor for CART Peptide)

1. Abstract The discovery of the CART transcript and peptides implicated peptide (CARTp) as a neurotransmitter involved in action psychostimulants several other physiological processes, buttressing importance CARTp system. While there is evidence that receptor(s) for exists, has/have not been cloned. To understand how functions, it important to identify its receptor(s). Given receptor GPCR, reasonable approach searching closely examine GPCR orphan receptors, receptors which are no known neurotransmitters. One such may be linked directly function GPR160. studying neuropathic pain, Yosten et al (2020) identified effects were related GPR160 expression. food water intake, Haddock (2021) also determined blocked by immuno-neutralization These findings suggest elusive receptor, welcome observation after so many years searching. This will advance understanding system, including facilitating drug screening small molecule agonists antagonists identification therapeutic compounds.