Immunotherapy: Open Access
Open Access

The Role of Mas-Related G Protein-Coupled Receptor (MRGPR) Family of Receptors in Immunity for Developing Novel Therapeutics in Immune-Related Disorders

Larissa Killestein^{* *}Correspondence: Larissa Killestein, Department of Immunology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands, Email:

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Description

The immune system serves as the body's frontline defense against pathogens and foreign invaders, orchestrating a complex network of responses to maintain homeostasis and protect against disease. In recent years, researchers have increasingly turned their attention to the Mas-Related G Protein-coupled Receptor (MRGPR) family, a group of receptors expressed in various immune cells and implicated in modulating immune responses. This article explores the emerging role of MRGPR receptors in immunity, shedding light on their diverse functions and potential implications for immunotherapy.

MRGPR family

The MRGPR family comprises a group of G protein-coupled receptors that share structural similarities with the prototypical opioid receptor, the Mu-Opioid Receptor (MOR). While originally identified in sensory neurons, MRGPRs are now recognized to be expressed in a variety of immune cells, including mast cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and T cells. To date, several members of the MRGPR family have been identified, with MRGPRX2 being the most extensively studied.

Roles of MRGPRs in immune regulation

MRGPRs play diverse roles in immune regulation, with implications for both innate and adaptive immunity. In mast cells, MRGPRX2 serves as a key mediator of allergic and inflammatory responses, responding to various stimuli such as neuropeptides, antimicrobial peptides, and drugs. Activation of MRGPRX2 triggers degranulation and release of proinflammatory mediators, contributing to the pathogenesis of conditions such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, and chronic urticaria.

Furthermore, MRGPRX2 has been implicated in the modulation of immune cell trafficking and activation. It promotes chemotaxis of immune cells to sites of inflammation and enhances cytokine production in response to microbial infection or tissue injury. Additionally, MRGPRX2 activation has been shown to modulate dendritic cell function and antigen presentation, influencing the adaptive immune response.

Implications for immunotherapy

The emerging role of MRGPRs in immunity presents novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention in immune-related disorders. Targeting MRGPRX2, in particular, holds promise for the development of precision therapeutics for allergic diseases, chronic inflammatory conditions, and autoimmune disorders. By selectively blocking MRGPRX2 activation, it may be possible to mitigate allergic responses, dampen inflammation, and alleviate symptoms in affected individuals.

Moreover, MRGPRX2 represents a potential target for cancer immunotherapy, given its expression on various immune cells involved in tumor surveillance and antitumor immunity. Strategies aimed at modulating MRGPRX2 signaling could enhance immune cell infiltration into the tumor microenvironment, promote antitumor immune responses, and improve the efficacy of immunotherapeutic interventions such as checkpoint blockade therapy.

Challenges and future directions

While the potential therapeutic implications of targeting MRGPRs in immunity are promising, several challenges and unanswered questions remain. Further elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying MRGPR signaling and regulation is needed to guide the development of selective agonists or antagonists with therapeutic efficacy and minimal off-target effects. Additionally, understanding the contextdependent roles of MRGPRs in different immune cell populations and disease states will be critical for tailoring therapeutic strategies to specific patient populations.

Conclusion

The MRGPR family of receptors represents a fascinating area of research in immunology, with implications for understanding immune regulation and developing novel therapeutics for immune-related disorders. By unraveling the complex roles of MRGPRs in immunity, researchers aim to unlock new avenues for precision medicine and immunotherapy, ultimately improving outcomes for patients with allergic diseases, chronic inflammatory conditions, cancer, and other immune-related disorders. As investigations into MRGPR biology continue to unfold, we anticipate exciting discoveries and innovative therapeutic strategies that harness the power of MRGPRs to modulate immune responses and promote health and wellbeing.