Endothelin Receptor
Endothelin receptors are a group of G-protein-coupled receptors that bind endothelins, potent vasoconstrictive peptides involved in regulating vascular tone and organ function. There are two main types: ET_A and ET_B. ET_A receptors are primarily located on vascular smooth muscle cells and mediate vasoconstriction and proliferative effects, contributing to hypertension and vascular diseases. ET_B receptors are found on endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells, promoting vasodilation and clearance of endothelins from the circulation. These receptors are critical targets for treating disorders such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), chronic kidney diseases, and heart failure, where endothelin system dysregulation plays a key role in disease progression and symptom severity.