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M3 Receptors

Supporting information

M3 receptors are members of the G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family which are found mostly bound to Gq proteins. They are one of five muscarinic receptors that act to control the metabotropic functions of acetylcholine (ACh) in the central nervous system (CNS). M3 receptors are most densely populated in smooth muscle, endocrine and exocrine glands, lungs and CNS.

Activation of the M3 receptor leads to several responses, including the upregulation of phospholipase C, and inositol triphosphate (IP3), therefore increasing intracellular Ca2+. Hence, M3 receptor agonism can lead to smooth muscle constriction and bronchoconstriction. Conversely, receptor activation on vascular endothelial cells may upregulate the vasodilator nitric oxide (NO). Activation of M3 receptors also contributes towards many secretions (for example from the salivary gland, pancreas or stomach). Overall, M3 receptors are involved in numerous metabolic functions, including the maintenance of insulin release, regulation of glucose homeostasis.

M3 receptor antagonism is a potential therapeutic target in the treatment pulmonary obstructions. Activation of the M3 receptor by selective agonists may also be beneficial in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes.

To view external sources of pharmacological information for M3 Receptors, please click here: IUPHAR Receptor Code and BJP Guide

View all products for M3 Receptors »
Species Gene Symbol Gene Accession No. Protein Accession No.
Human CHRM3 NM_000740 P20309
Mouse Chrm3 NM_033269 Q9ERZ3
Rat Chrm3 NM_012527 P08483

Literature for M3 Receptors

7-TM Receptor Signaling Poster

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Written by Terry Kenakin et al, this poster highlights the multiple behaviors of seven-transmembrane (7-TM) receptors, including G-protein-dependent and -independent signaling and the concept of collateral efficacy. Compounds available from Tocris are listed.

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Alzheimer's Poster

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Written by Alan Palmer, this poster summarizes structural and functional changes observed in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The hypotheses behind the neurobiology of AD are discussed alongside the different stages in disease progression. Compounds available from Tocris are listed.

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Cardiovascular Poster

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Written by Janet Maguire and Anthony Davenport, this poster summarizes different GPCR classes of the vascular system and their cognate ligands. The predominant vasoactive response of blood vessels to specific receptor activation is also described. Endogenous ligands and Tocris compounds are listed.

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Schizophrenia Poster

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Written by Jacob Ballon et al, this poster highlights key signaling pathways implicated in the development of schizophrenia, and the most promising strategies in novel drug development. Current research targets include cholinergic and glutamatergic signaling pathways, and the D2 receptor. Compounds available from Tocris are listed.

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7-TM Receptor Signaling

Written by T. Kenakin et al

7-TM Poster

'Seven Transmembrane Receptor Signaling' highlights the multiple behaviors of 7-TMs including G-protein-dependent and -independent signaling as well as the concept of collateral efficacy

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The Neurobiology of Alzheimer's Disease

Written by Alan Palmer

Alzheimer's Poster

'The Neurobiology of Alzheimer's Disease' summarizes structural and functional changes observed in the progression of AD.

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Regulation of Vascular Reactivity by GPCRs

Written by J.J. Maguire and A.P. Davenport

Cardiovascular Poster

'Regulation of Vascular Reactivity by G-protein-coupled Receptors' summarizes the key GPCRs regulating vascular reactivity.

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Therapeutic Strategies in Schizophrenia

Written by J. Lieberman

Schizophrenia Poster

'Schizophrenia - Emerging Targets and Therapeutic Strategies' provides a summary of the targets and pathways representing the most promising strategies to pursue for novel drug development.

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Highlights over 130 new products added in 2012. Request a copy or view PDF today.

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Potent, selective LRRK2 inhibitor

Potent LRRK2 inhibitor now available from Tocris Bioscience

Tocris is the first to launch GSK2578215A, licensed from GlaxoSmithKline, for the study of Parkinson's Disease.

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