P2RX7

ATP-gated nonselective transmembrane cation channel that requires high millimolar concentrations of ATP for activation. Upon ATP binding, it rapidly opens to allow the influx of small cations Na(+) and Ca(2+), and the K(+) efflux. Also has the ability to form a large pore in the cell membrane, allowing the passage of large cationic molecules. In microglia, may mediate NADPH transport across the plasma membrane. In immune cells, P2RX7 acts as a molecular sensor in pathological inflammatory states by detecting and responding to high local concentrations of extracellar ATP. In microglial cells, P2RX7 activation leads to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1beta and IL-18, through the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and caspase-1. Cooperates with KCNK6 to activate NLRP3 inflammasome (By similarity). Activates death pathways leading to apoptosis and autophagy. Activates death pathways leading to pyroptosis (By similarity)..

Function from UniProtKB (Q99572), read 2026-09-23. CC BY 4.0.