Description
The CRF1 receptor is a Gs-coupled GPCR expressed in the brain and pituitary gland that binds to several neuropeptides, including corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and urocortin, and the amphibian peptide sauvagine. CRF plays a predominant role in stress response mediated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and alterations in CRF and its receptors CRF1 and CRF2 appear to be linked to depression and anxiety. In comparison to the CRF2 receptor, the CRF1 receptor has received considerable attention as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of stress-related disorders such as adrenocorticotropin hypersecretion, increased colonic motility and exaggerated fear and anxiety-related behavior.