The P2Y family belongs to the G-protein coupled receptors superfamily. They are activated by extracellular nucleotides and modulate variety of physiological functions.
A new member of this family was recently identified, the P2Y13 receptor.1,2 The P2Y13 receptor has significant similarity to the P2Y12 receptor (about 45% sequence identity) and together they form a distinct group structurally differ from other members of this family. P2Y13 receptor, like the P2Y12 receptor, is a high affinity receptor for the ADP nucleotide, coupled to the Gai class of G-proteins.1,2 The P2Y13 receptor is highly expressed at brain and spleen tissues as well as in the immune system. Lower expression was demonstrated in the testis, lung liver and other peripheral organs.1-3
Recently it has been shown that ADP activates a negative feedback pathway for ATP release from human red blood cells via the P2Y13 receptor.4
P2Y13 receptor was also implicated in inhibition of N-type Ca2+ channels in neurons, exerting pre and/or post-synaptic modulatory action.5
