Neuropeptide

Neuropeptides are small protein-like molecules (peptides) used by neurons to communicate with each other. They are neuronal signaling molecules that influence the activity of the brain and the body in specific ways. Unlike neurotransmitters, neuropeptides must be synthesized in the cell body according to instructions in the cell's DNA.

Function

Neuropeptides are involved in a wide range of brain functions, including analgesia, reward, food intake, metabolism, reproduction, social behaviors, learning and memory. Neuropeptides are released from a neuron in response to prolonged firing, and can affect large numbers of neurons in a broad area. In contrast to the direct synaptic communication of classical neurotransmitters, neuropeptides communicate information in a slower, more global manner.

Classification

Neuropeptides are often classified into families based on their amino acid sequence similarities. Some of the known families include the opioid peptides, tachykinins, somatostatin, neurotensin, vasopressin and oxytocin, cholecystokinin, gastrin-releasing peptide, neuropeptide Y, calcitonin gene-related peptide, corticotropin-releasing hormone, and the hypothalamic releasing hormones.

Role in disease

Alterations in neuropeptide function or changes in their receptors can lead to a variety of diseases, including schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, depression, anxiety, and cancer. Neuropeptides can be used as biomarkers for different diseases, and they are also being explored as potential therapeutic targets.

See also

• Neurotransmitter
• Peptide hormone
• Signal transduction

References

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