Membrane Guanylyl Cyclases as Potential Targets for Guanylin Action

Abstract

Guanylins are intestinal natriuretic peptides that regulate water and electrolyte balance in the intestine and kidney. Their primary receptor is membrane guanylyl cyclase C (GC-C), while alternative functions related to feeding behavior and olfactory preferences are mediated by guanylyl cyclase D (GC-D) expressed exclusively in olfactory neurons. Evidence suggests existence of unidentified receptors activated by guanylin peptides in the absence of GC-C that affect sodium metabolism. Some of these receptors trigger the cGMP-dependent signaling pathways typical exclusively for guanylyl cyclases. This review provides a comparative analysis of the existing data on different membrane receptor guanylyl cyclases, including early discoveries and contemporary research, focusing on their potential as guanylin targets.