P2X7 receptor antagonists display agonist-like effects on cell signaling proteins

► Agents that block P2/P2X7 receptors promote the phosphorylation of cell signaling proteins in a cell-type specific manner. ► ERK, Src, PKC, and CDCP1 are among the proteins that are phosphorylated/activated. ► Phosphorylation events promoted by P2R blockers are independent of the P2X7 receptor.