AbstractG protein‐coupled P2Y receptors (Rs) regulate the function of embryonic and adult neural precursor cells (NPCs) which have the capacity to regenerate and give rise to cells belonging to all three major linages of the nervous system: neurons, oligodendrocytes and astrocytes. The presence of mRNA and protein for various P2YRs have been demonstrated by RT‐PCR, immunohistochemistry and western‐blotting in NPCs. In agreement with the sensitivity of different subtypes of P2YRs to purine and pyrimidine nucleotides, the ATP‐responsive P2Y1R and the ATP/UTP‐responsive P2Y2R both released intracellular Ca2+ from its storage sites in NPCs. Nucleotide‐induced Ca2+ oscillations have a signaling function in NPC syncitia and appear to be involved in cellular proliferation. Two further NPC functions regulated by P2Y receptors are migration and differentiation, especially through P2Y1R‐activation, although P2Y2Rs may also participate. WIREs Membr Transp Signal 2013, 2:43–48. doi: 10.1002/wmts.76For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.