Taar8b is a member of the trace-amine-associated receptor (TAAR) family. The thyroid hormone derivative 3-iodothyronamine (3-T1AM) has metabolic effects that seem to oppose known thyroid hormone effects. Taar8b could potentially be a target for 3-T1AM, and it is involved in G-protein-mediated signaling pathways, which are important in cellular communication and regulation of various biological processes [1].

Expression analyses of Taar8b in mouse tissues by RT-qPCR and LNA in situ hybridization revealed at most marginal expression with no gender differences in almost all analyzed tissues, and its absence in the heart. Functionally, 3-T1AM was not identified as a ligand for Taar8b, but the receptor was characterized by a basal G(i/o) signaling activity, a novel signaling pathway for TAARs. These findings were obtained from in vivo-like studies in mice, contributing to understanding Taar8b's functional role [1].

In conclusion, Taar8b, a scarcely studied member of the TAAR family, shows limited tissue expression and has a unique basal G(i/o) signaling activity. Mouse-based research has provided insights into its potential role in the context of 3-T1AM's metabolic effects and signaling pathways, though further research may be needed to fully understand its biological functions and implications in disease.

References:

1. Mühlhaus, Jessica, Dinter, Juliane, Nürnberg, Daniela, Kleinau, Gunnar, Biebermann, Heike. 2014. Analysis of human TAAR8 and murine Taar8b mediated signaling pathways and expression profile. In International journal of molecular sciences, 15, 20638-55. doi:10.3390/ijms151120638. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25391046/