Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a large family of cell surface
receptors that play a critical role in nervous system function by
transmitting signals between cells and their environment. They are
involved in many, if not all, nervous system processes, and their
dysfunction has been linked to various neurological disorders
representing important drug targets. In this review, we will first
discuss the role of the nervous system GPCRs in the modulation of
tripartite synapse function and how GPCRs control energy metabolism in
the brain. We will then discuss the (patho)physiology and pharmacology
of opioid, cannabinoid, acetylcholine, chemokine, and melatonin GPCRs in
the nervous system. Furthermore, we will briefly report on adhesion GPCR
function in nervous tissues. Finally, we will address orphan GPCRs,
their implication in the nervous system function and disease, and the
challenges that need to be addressed in the future to deorphanize them.