Free Fatty Acid Receptor
Free fatty acid receptors (FFARs) are a family of G protein-coupled receptors that respond to varying chain lengths of free fatty acids (FFAs). These receptors play crucial roles in regulating metabolic processes including glucose uptake, insulin sensitivity, and energy homeostasis. FFARs include several subtypes, such as GPR40 and GPR120, which are activated by medium to long-chain fatty acids and are predominantly expressed in pancreatic islet cells and adipose tissue. Activation of these receptors enhances insulin secretion and adipocyte function, making them significant targets in the treatment of metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes and obesity.
