motiiliini

Motiiliini is a family of proteins characterized by the presence of a motilin-binding domain. These proteins are primarily involved in the regulation of gastrointestinal motility, playing a crucial role in the coordinated contractions of the digestive tract that propel food through the system. Motiiliini proteins are structurally related to each other and are found in various species.

The primary function of motiliini is associated with the gut hormone motilin. Motilin is secreted by endocrine cells in the small intestine and binds to motiliini receptors on smooth muscle cells, stimulating strong contractions, particularly during the interdigestive period. These contractions, known as migrating motor complexes (MMCs), are essential for clearing the stomach and small intestine of residual food and debris.

Dysregulation of motiliini signaling has been implicated in several gastrointestinal disorders. Conditions such as gastroparesis, a disorder characterized by delayed gastric emptying, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have been linked to abnormalities in motilin levels or the sensitivity of motiliini receptors. Research into motiliini and its role in motility is ongoing, with a focus on understanding its precise mechanisms of action and its potential as a therapeutic target for gastrointestinal motility disorders. The specific functions and interactions of different motiliini family members are still being elucidated.