Recombinant Human GPR157 protein

GPR157 is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily, a large class of transmembrane proteins involved in signal transduction across diverse physiological processes. Despite its classification, GPR157 remains an understudied orphan receptor, meaning its endogenous ligand, downstream signaling pathways, and precise biological functions are not yet fully elucidated. Phylogenetically, it clusters within the adhesion GPCR subfamily, characterized by extracellular domains with adhesion-like motifs, suggesting potential roles in cellular adhesion, development, or tissue homeostasis. Recent studies have detected GPR157 expression in the central nervous system, particularly in the brain’s ventricular zones and choroid plexus, implicating possible involvement in neurodevelopment or cerebrospinal fluid regulation. Its expression patterns during embryogenesis further hint at roles in early tissue organization.

Recombinant GPR157 protein refers to the engineered version of this receptor, typically produced in heterologous systems like mammalian cells (HEK293 or CHO) or insect cells using baculovirus vectors. These systems enable large-scale production of the protein with post-translational modifications critical for structural and functional studies. Recombinant GPR157 is essential for in vitro experiments to deorphanize the receptor, identify binding partners, or map signaling cascades. It also facilitates antibody development, structural biology (e.g., crystallography or cryo-EM), and high-throughput drug screening to uncover therapeutic targets. Challenges in studying GPR157 include low natural abundance and stability issues common to membrane proteins. Advances in protein engineering, solubilization techniques, and lipid-based reconstitution systems are improving research feasibility. As an undercharacterized GPCR, GPR157 represents a frontier for discovering novel signaling mechanisms with potential implications in neurology, oncology, or developmental disorders.