Abstract: In addition to being an energy source, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) can also bind to purinergic receptor 2X7 (P2X7R) on the cell surface to activate downstream related signaling pathways and initiate various pathophysiological reactions. P2X7R is widely expressed on many immune cells, such as macrophages, monocytes, lymphocytes and eosinophils, etc. ATP-mediated P2X7R pathways can play important roles in inflammatory diseases. This paper reviewed the basic concepts, discovery history, main sources and physiological and pathological functions of related molecules involved in P2X7R, and the role of ATP-P2X7R signaling pathway in inflammatory diseases of digestive system, respiratory system, nervous system and immune system.

Key words: Adenosine triphosphate（ATP）, P2X7 receptor, Inflammatory diseases, Signaling pathways