PAR2: The Cornerstone of Pancreatic Diseases

Physiol Res. 2022 Nov 28;71(5):583-596. doi: 10.33549/physiolres.934931. Epub 2022 Sep 8.

Abstract

It has been 30 years since the first member of the protease-activated receptor (PAR) family was discovered. This was followed by the discovery of three other receptors, including PAR2. PAR2 is a G protein-coupled receptor activated by trypsin site-specific proteolysis. The process starts with serine proteases acting between arginine and serine, creating an N-terminus that functions as a tethered ligand that binds, after a conformational change, to the second extracellular loop of the receptor, leading to activation of G-proteins. The physiological and pathological functions of this ubiquitous receptor are still elusive. This review focuses on PAR2 activation and its distribution under physiological and pathological conditions, with a particular focus on the pancreas, a significant producer of trypsin, which is the prototype activator of the receptor. The role in acute or chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and diabetes mellitus will be highlighted.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Pancreas / metabolism
  • Pancreatic Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Receptor, PAR-2* / metabolism
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled
  • Trypsin / metabolism

Substances

  • Trypsin
  • Receptor, PAR-2
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled