Neurokinin‐1 receptor: functional significance in the immune system in reference to selected infections and inflammation

The G protein–coupled receptor (GPCR), neurokinin‐1 receptor (NK1R), and its preferred ligand, substance P (SP), are reviewed in relationship to the immune system and selected infections. NK1R and SP are ubiquitous throughout the animal kingdom. This important pathway has unique functions in numerous cells and tissues. The interaction of SP with its preferred receptor, NK1R, leads to the activation of nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) and...