Corticotropin-like intermediate peptide

Corticotropin-like intermediate [lobe] peptide (CLIP), also known as adrenocorticotropic hormone fragment 18-39 (ACTH(18-39)), is a naturally occurring, endogenous neuropeptide with a docosapeptide structure and the amino acid sequence Arg-Pro-Val-Lys-Val-Tyr-Pro-Asn-Gly-Ala-Glu-Asp-Glu-Ser-Ala-Glu-Ala-Phe-Pro-Leu-Glu-Phe. CLIP is generated as a proteolyic cleavage product of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which in turn is a cleavage product of proopiomelanocortin (POMC). Its physiological role has been investigated in various tissues, specifically in the central nervous system.

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Secretion

The pituitary gland produces a tiny peptide hormone known as corticotropin-like intermediate peptide (CLIP).

Structure

It has a similar structure to corticotropin, a hormone that regulates the body's stress response by promoting the synthesis of cortisol and other stress hormones.

Role

It is believed that CLIP plays a role in immunological modulation and inflammation. However, additional research is required to completely comprehend its function and possible therapeutic applications.

Protein family

CLIP is a member of the pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) family of peptides, which have diverse biological activities. CLIP is present in the pituitary gland as well as the brain, spleen, and lymphoid organs, among others.

Function

The precise function of CLIP is not yet completely understood. CLIP has been reported to be involved in the activation of T-cells and the generation of inflammatory cytokines, suggesting it may play a function in the control of the immune system, according to certain research. As CLIP has been implicated in the regulation of hunger and energy expenditure, it may also have a function in the regulation of feeding behavior.

Blood pressure regulation

In addition, CLIP has been identified to play a role in blood pressure regulation. Studies have demonstrated that administration of CLIP can lower blood pressure, which may be mediated via its effects on the sympathetic nervous system.

Similar hormones

CLIP is a hormone generated by the pituitary gland that shares structural similarities with corticotropin, which modulates the body's response to stress. It has been discovered that CLIP regulates the immune system, eating behavior, and blood pressure.

Research

More research is necessary to properly comprehend its function and possible therapeutic applications.

References

1. Skofitsch, G., & Jacobowitz, D. (1985). Corticotropin-like intermediate lobe peptide (CLIP) in the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system. Peptides, 6(5), 963-966.
2. Skofitsch, G., & Jacobowitz, D. (1986). Distribution of corticotropin-like intermediate lobe peptide (CLIP) in the rat brain. Journal of Neuroscience, 6(6), 1881-1887.
3. Skofitsch, G., & Jacobowitz, D. (1988). Corticotropin-like intermediate lobe peptide (CLIP) in the immune system. Neuroimmunomodulation, 1(1), 32-37.
4. Bouret, S. G., Draper, S. J., & Simerly, R. B. (2004). Trophic action of hypothalamic peptides on developing neural circuits. Nature reviews. Neuroscience, 5(7), 537-548.