Calcitonin gene-related peptide 2

Also known as: Beta-type CGRP, Calcitonin gene-related peptide II, CALCB, P10092

Calcitonin gene-related peptide 2 (CGRP2, also known as beta-type CGRP) is a 37-amino-acid peptide encoded by the *CALCB* gene. Its primary mechanism of action involves binding to the calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CALCRL) in complex with receptor activity-modifying protein 1 (RAMP1), forming a functional CGRP receptor. Activation of this receptor complex stimulates adenylate cyclase, increasing intracellular cyclic AMP levels, which leads to potent vasodilation, particularly in cerebral and peripheral vasculature. CGRP2 is structurally similar to alpha-CGRP but differs by three amino acids, and it is predominantly expressed in sensory neurons and the enteric nervous system. As of the current research status (EXPERIMENTAL), no peer-reviewed studies specifically investigating CGRP2 are indexed in PubMed. Available knowledge is extrapolated from studies on alpha-CGRP, given their shared receptor pharmacology. Key findings from related CGRP research indicate roles in migraine pathophysiology, neurogenic inflammation, and cardiovascular regulation. CGRP2 may contribute to nociceptive signaling and vascular tone modulation, but direct experimental evidence remains absent. Clinical relevance is speculative at this stage. CGRP2 could be a target for migraine therapeutics or cardiovascular conditions involving vasodilation, but no clinical trials or translational studies have been conducted. The lack of specific research limits any definitive conclusions about its therapeutic potential or safety profile. For research purposes only — not medical advice.

Key data

Mechanism of action

CALCB/CGRP2 is a peptide hormone that induces vasodilation mediated by the CALCRL-RAMP1 receptor complex (PubMed:1318039, PubMed:9620797). Dilates a variety of vessels including the coronary, cerebral and systemic vasculature. Its abundance in the CNS also points toward a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator role (PubMed:3492492)

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