Receptor antagonists for gastrointestinal peptides

Receptors for gastrointestinal peptides are all G protein-coupled receptors. Since the discovery that dibutyryl guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate was a cholecystokinin-receptor antagonist, a variety of receptor antagonists have been developed for a number of different gastrointestinal peptides. These antagonists have been useful in classifying receptors for gastrointestinal peptides and in elucidating complex regulation of gastrointestinal function. Some antagonists also have therapeutic potential. Based on the receptors with which they interact, gastrointestinal peptides can be grouped into families, and, in general, a given receptor antagonist is specific for a given family. This review covers the different families of gastrointestinal peptides and the major antagonists that exist for each family.