Arginine vasopressin receptor 1B

Arginine vasopressin receptor 1B (AVPR1B, vasopressin 3 receptor) is a protein that acts as receptor for arginine vasopressin. AVPR1B belongs to the subfamily of G-protein coupled receptors. Its activity is mediated by G proteins which stimulate a phosphatidylinositol-calcium second messenger system.

Tissue distribution
AVPR1B was initially described as a novel vasopressin receptor located in the anterior pituitary, where it stimulates ACTH release. Subsequent studies have shown its presence in the brain as well.

Behavioral
Inactivation of the Avpr1b in mice (knockout) produces mice with greatly reduced aggression and a reduced ability to recognize recently investigated mice. Interestingly, defensive behavior and predatory behaviors appear to normal in these knockout mice. There is evidence that social motivation or awareness is reduced in these mice. The AVPR1B antagonist, SSR149415, has been shown to have anti-aggressive actions in hamsters and anti-depressant- and anxiety (anxiolytic)-like behaviors in rats. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) has been associated with susceptiblility to depression in man.

Metabolic
Various stress-induced elevations of ACTH are blunted in the Avpr1b knockout mouse.

Oncology
AVPR1B is expressed at high levels in ACTH-secreting pituitary adenomas as well as in bronchial carcinoids responsible for the ectopic ACTH syndrome.

Ligands
SSR149415 and D-[Leu4-Lys8]-vasopressin are a specific antagonist and agonist for the vasopressin 1b receptor, respectively.