The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the G protein-coupled receptor family that activates a phosphatidylinositol-calcium second messenger system.[7] Binding and pharmacological studies demonstrate that this receptor binds Neurotensin (NT) as well as several other ligands already described for Neurotensin receptor 1. NT function is known to be a neuromodulator of dopamine and has hypothermic and analgesic properties in the brain and some peripheral organ function as well.[8] NTS2 is found mostly in the brain through Northern-blot analysis.[8] Unlike NTS1, NTS2 has a low affinity with NT and a high sensitivity to levocabastine, an antihistamine, which competes with NT for binding.[8]
