Small peptides and nerve growth: Therapeutic implications

Abstract

Factors Associated with Growth Hormone Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone (TRH) Endogenous Opioids Substance-P OTHER SMALL PEPTIDES AND NERVE REGENERATION CONCLUDING REMARKS: DIRECTION FOR FUTURE RESEARCH REFERENCES ABSTRACT Taylor, J.E., J.P. Moreau, and F.V. DeFeudis: Small peptides and nerve growth: Therapeutic implications. Drug Dev. Res. 11 :75-86, 1987.Studies of the effects of small peptides (< 10,000 Da), i.e., fragments of naturally occurring hormones (e.g., adrenocorticotrophic hormones [ACTH]: a-melanocyte-stimulating hor- 76Taylor, Moreau, and DeFeudis mone [a-MSH]), hypophysiotrophic factors (e.g., growth hormone-releasing hormone [GH-RH], thyrotropin-releasing hormone [TRH]), other growth factors, and synthetic compounds on peripheral and CNS neuronal regeneration and behavior have been reviewed and analyzed. It seems apparent that certain hormonal fragments, growth factors, and some synthetic compounds (e.g., the ACTHla-MSH analogue Org 2766) can enhance peripheral, and possibly CNS, nerve regeneration. Further study of newer peptide-analogues with increased potency, longer duration of activity, and greater selectivity of action might lead to the development of therapies for certain types of nerve injury and for neurodegenerative disorders.