Brain Peptides: What, Where, And Why?

Abstract

Within the past decade, a large number of peptides have been described within the vertebrate central nervous system. Some of these peptides were previously known to be present in nonneural vertebrate tissues, as well as in lower species, in which they may serve as primitive elements of intercellular communication prior to the development of neuronal or endocrine systems. In vertebrates, these peptides are thought to have neurotransmitter or neuromodulatory roles and appear to be involved in the regulation of a number of homeostatic systems, although the mechanisms of their actions are still unclear.

Pharmacological analysis of male rat sexual behavior

“…Recently, much research has focused on the putative neurotransmitter/modulator function of peptides originally identified in non-neural t~ssues, such as the pituitary hormones prolactin, oxytocin, and the pro-op~omelanocortin derivatives, mcluding adrenocortlcotroplc hormone (ACTH), alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH), and betaendorphm (reviewed in [128]). Although the focus of much of thts work has been on the central nervous system distribution and neuroendocnne and autonomic homeostatic functions, effects of such peptides on learning and memory (reviewed m [153]) and maternal behawor (e.g., [178]) have also been demonstrated.…”

“…MSH consists of amino acid residues 1-13; ACTH of residues 1-39. Whde the entire ACTH peptide is reqmred to stimulate adrenocortlcal secretion, shorter fragments are active in the brain [128].…”

Microwave‐assisted proteomics

“…Neuropeptides are involved in a variety of physiological and pathophysiological functions including metabolism, memory, sensory perception, regulation of appetite, learning, and mood (Krieger, 1983;Konig et al, 1996). Detection and identification of neuropeptides in the central nervous system can provide useful information about physiological condition and the distribution of neuropeptides and perhaps discovery of novel neurotransmitter candidates.…”

Dose Response of Adrenocorticotropin and Cortisol to the CCK-B Agonist Pentagastrin

“…Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a peptide neurotransmitter widely distributed in the brain and abundant in cortex (Kreiger 1983). Two CCK receptor subtypes (designated A and B) have been identified.…”