RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. LXXIV. Apelin Receptor Nomenclature, Distribution, Pharmacology, and Function JF Pharmacological Reviews JO Pharmacol Rev FD American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics SP 331 OP 342 DO 10.1124/pr.110.002949 VO 62 IS 3 A1 Sarah L. Pitkin A1 Janet. J. Maguire A1 Tom I. Bonner A1 Anthony P. Davenport YR 2010 UL http://pharmrev.aspetjournals.org/content/62/3/331.abstract AB A gene encoding a novel class a G-protein-coupled receptor was discovered in 1993 by homology cloning and was called APJ. It was designated an “orphan” receptor until 1998, when its endogenous ligand was identified and named apelin (for APJ endogenous ligand). Since this pairing, both apelin and its receptor have been found to have a widespread distribution in both the central nervous system and the periphery. A number of physiological and pathophysiological roles for the receptor have emerged, including regulation of cardiovascular function, fluid homeostasis, and the adipoinsular axis. This review outlines the official International Union of Pharmacology Committee on Receptor Nomenclature and Drug Classification nomenclature, designating the receptor protein as the apelin receptor, together with current knowledge of its pharmacology, distribution, and functions.