Purinergic receptor

Purinergic receptors are a family of newly characterized plasma membrane molecules involved in several and as yet only partially known cellular functions such as vascular reactivity, apoptosis and cytokine secretion.

Little is known about the effect extracellular microenvironment has on their function.

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

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

The members of the family include the following: