TRHR1

TRHR1, also known as thyrotropin-releasing hormone receptor 1, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the TRHR1 gene. This gene is located on chromosome 8. The TRHR1 protein is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor superfamily. It is primarily expressed in the anterior pituitary gland and the brain.

The main function of TRHR1 is to mediate the effects of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). TRH is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus that plays a crucial role in regulating the thyroid axis. When TRH binds to TRHR1 on pituitary cells, it stimulates the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), also known as thyrotropin. TSH then acts on the thyroid gland to promote the production and release of thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4).

Beyond its role in the pituitary, TRHR1 is also found in various brain regions and is implicated in other physiological processes. These include regulation of mood, behavior, and thermogenesis. Dysregulation of the TRH-TRHR1 system has been associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, and certain metabolic abnormalities. Research continues to explore the diverse roles of TRHR1 in both endocrine and neurological functions.