The GPR40 and GPR120 receptors are also known as the Free Fatty Acid Receptor (1 and 4 respectively). All of them are members of the A11 subfamily of GPCR receptors. Four (1-4) subtypes of the FFA receptors are known to date. They are a critical component of the body’s nutrient sensing apparatus, and small molecule agonists and antagonists of these receptors show considerable promise in the management of diabetes and its complications[1]. Unlike the classic ‘lock and key’ relationship between receptors and their ligands, nutrient receptors are considered to be promiscuous in that they can be activated by a range of ligands.

FFA receptor subtypes listed: GPR40, GPR120