Key result
Nuclear angiotensin receptors directly regulate gene expression and cellular function independently of cell-surface signaling.
Why the study?
Nuclear GPCR signaling represents an additional layer of complexity in angiotensin receptor biology beyond classical plasma membrane-initiated pathways, prompting a review of nuclear angiotensin receptors, their signaling properties, and their functional relevance.
Design
Review
Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
Nuclear angiotensin signaling may affect cardiovascular gene expression; extends intracellular GPCR concepts but leaves open therapeutic translation.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have traditionally been described as seven-transmembrane receptors located at the plasma membrane. However, it is now well established that these receptors can also signal from intracellular membrane compartments, including endosomes, mitochondria, the Golgi apparatus, and nuclear membranes. Importantly, such intracellular signaling can generate distinct functional outcomes even when similar G protein-mediated pathways and second messenger systems are engaged. In this context, increasing evidence indicates that angiotensin receptors, which are GPCRs, are not restricted to the cell surface but can also localize to intracellular compartments, particularly the nucleus. This intracellular distribution supports the concept of an intracrine renin-angiotensin system, in which nuclear angiotensin receptors may directly regulate gene expression and cellular function. Thus, nuclear GPCR signaling represents an additional layer of complexity in angiotensin receptor biology, extending beyond classical membrane-initiated pathways. This review focuses on nuclear angiotensin receptors, their signaling properties, and their functional relevance in regulating cellular responses.
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Pinto et al. (2026) reported a review. Nuclear angiotensin receptors, which are seven-transmembrane GPCRs, localize to intracellular compartments to directly regulate gene expression and cellular function beyond plasma membrane signaling.
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