Recombinant Human CALCB protein (Fc Chimera)

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

CALCB also known as calcitonin gene-related peptide beta (CGRP-beta) is a peptide with a molecular mass of about 12 kDa. It is a member of the calcitonin family of proteins. This peptide is expressed mainly in the central and peripheral nervous systems where it acts as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator. CALCB has significant roles in neuronal communication and one can find it distributed in sensory neurons including the trigeminal ganglion.

Biological function summary

The peptide CGRP-beta plays a role in vasodilation which is the widening of blood vessels. It achieves this by signaling endothelial cells to increase cyclic AMP and relax smooth muscle cells in blood vessel walls. Although CALCB does not form part of a larger complex its action significantly influences vascular tone and blood flow. As such the peptide functions in the regulation of cardiovascular homeostasis and pain transmission.

Pathways

CGRP-beta is an important element in the calcitonin gene-related peptide pathway and this affects vasodilation and pain mechanisms. It interacts closely with proteins such as the calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRLR) and receptor activity-modifying proteins (RAMPs) which together form the receptor complex mediating its effects. The signaling pathway is also intertwined with pathways affecting the release of other neurotransmitters and inflammatory mediators.

CGRP-beta is highly relevant in understanding migraines and cardiovascular diseases. Elevated levels of this peptide are often associated with migraine attacks as it contributes to the dilation of cerebral blood vessels. The target is also investigated in the context of hypertension where its modulation of vascular tone might be disrupted. In such conditions alterations in CGRP-beta interaction with other proteins like its receptor components CRLR and RAMPs become significant in pathophysiology studies.