The NPY4R antibody is a research tool designed to detect and study the neuropeptide Y receptor Y4 (NPY4R), a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) belonging to the neuropeptide Y (NPY) receptor family. NPY4R primarily binds pancreatic polypeptide (PP), a gut-derived hormone involved in regulating appetite, energy homeostasis, and gastrointestinal functions. Structurally, NPY4R consists of seven transmembrane domains and signals through Gαi/o proteins, inhibiting cAMP production and modulating intracellular pathways like MAPK/ERK. It is expressed in peripheral tissues (e.g., pancreas, intestines) and specific brain regions, suggesting roles in both central and peripheral physiological processes.
Antibodies targeting NPY4R enable researchers to investigate its expression, localization, and function in normal and pathological states. These antibodies are widely used in techniques such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry. Studies involving NPY4R antibodies have explored its involvement in obesity, metabolic disorders, and cancer, where receptor dysregulation may contribute to disease progression. For example, NPY4R activation has been linked to appetite suppression and antitumor effects in certain cancers.
The development and validation of NPY4R antibodies are critical for advancing understanding of its signaling mechanisms and therapeutic potential. Challenges include ensuring specificity due to homology with other NPY receptors. Reliable NPY4R antibodies are essential tools for basic research and drug discovery, particularly in metabolic and oncological studies.