Purinergic receptor

Purinergic receptors, also known as purinoceptors, are a family of newly characterized plasma membrane molecules involved in several cellular functions such as vascular reactivity, apoptosis and cytokine secretion. These functions have not been well characterized and the effect of the extracellular microenvironment on their function is also poorly understood.

Fibroblasts share several features with smooth muscle cells and are an important constituent of the atherosclerotic plaque.

These receptors have their effect of high glucose concentration on ATP-mediated responses in human fibroblasts.

The members of the family include the following:

Inhibitors
Inhibitors of purinergic receptors include clopidogrel, prasugrel and ticlopidine, as well as the investigational drug ticagrelor. All of these are antiplatelet agents that block P2Y12 receptors.