P2X1 Receptor

P2X1 receptor is an ATP-gated cation channel expressed in human platelets and smooth muscle, where it links extracellular ATP to rapid Ca2+ influx and contractile or platelet responses[1][2]. Mechanistically, platelet P2X1 activation increases intracellular Ca2+, drives shape change, granule movement, and low-level αIIbβ3 integrin activation[3]. In thrombosis models, P2X1 supports platelet thrombus formation, especially under high-shear arterial conditions. In urogenital models, mice lacking P2X1 show reduced vas deferens contraction and male infertility, supporting its value in reproductive physiology research[2]. Compared with platelet P2Y1 and P2Y12 receptors, P2X1 is an ATP-gated ion channel rather than an ADP-dependent G-protein-coupled receptor[3]. Compared with P2X2, P2X1 shows distinctive antagonist sensitivity because basic residues in its cysteine-rich head region contribute to NF449 and suramin inhibition[4]. For experimental applications, α,β-methylene ATP can selectively evoke platelet shape change through P2X1, whereas NF449, suramin, and structural studies support antagonist-focused assay design[4][5][6].