neuropeptide

[ noor-oh-pep-tahyd, nyoor- ]

noun

1. any of various short-chain peptides, as endorphins, that function as neuromodulators in the nervous system and as hormones in the endocrine system.

neuropeptide

/ ˌnjʊərəʊˈpɛptaɪd /

noun

1. a peptide produced by neural tissue, esp one with hormonal activity

Word History and Origins

Origin of neuropeptide¹

First recorded in 1970–75; neuro- + peptide

Example Sentences

Expression of the alpha2delta1 receptor in sensory neurons increased as they over-secreted a neuropeptide called CGRP, all while communicating through synaptic transmission to the fat tissue -- which, in a state of dysregulation, drove up levels of a receptor protein that engaged with the CGRP.

From Science Daily

This circuit consists of specialized neurons that send and receive a neuropeptide -- a small protein that sends messages throughout the brain -- called PACAP.

From Science Daily

Interestingly, a similar increase was also observed in the levels of another stress neuropeptide closely related to PACAP, the calcitonin gene-related peptide, or CGRP.

From Science Daily

Neuropeptide Y is associated with “hedonic eating”—consuming food strictly to experience pleasure rather than to satisfy hunger.

From Scientific American

“Honestly, I was not expecting anything really interesting with neuropeptide Y,” she says.

From Scientific American