G Protein Coupled Receptor 6 (GPR6)

GPR6 is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor family of transmembrane receptors. It has been reported that GPR6 is both constitutively active but in addition is further activated by sphingosine-1-phosphate.GPR6 up-regulates cyclic AMP levels and promotes neurite outgrowth.

Using degenerate PCR, Heiber et al. (1995) identified additional members of this family, one of which was designated GPR6. A genomic DNA library was screened with the GPR6 PCR-based probe. The characterized gene encoded a putative 362-amino acid protein. Northern blots showed abundant expression in the putamen of the brain and, to a lesser extent, to the frontal cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus.