A novel G protein-coupled receptor was isolated from a cDNA derived from the cell line NH15-CA2 and a cDNA library from adult mouse brain using a PCR cloning strategy. The amino acid sequence of the candidate receptor DEZ showed homology to neuropeptide and chemoattractant receptors. Highest overall homology was found with the orphan receptor GPR-1 (65%), the angiotensin II receptor (62%), and the C5a anaphylatoxin receptor (60%). Northern blot analysis of dez revealed a predominant 2.6 kb mRNA species in NH15-CA2 cells. In situ hybridization experiments showed that dez is differentially regulated during development, with a prominent expression in developing osseous and cartilaginous tissue. It was also detectable in the adult parathyroid glands, hinting at a possible function in bone metabolism.
