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

Since the hypothalamic neurons express a neuropeptide that was previously linked to reducing pain, Wang focused on studying them first.

From MIT Technology Review

Following up on this finding, we were able to identify a specific population of neurons expressing the neuropeptide galanin that are essential and sufficient for the expression of parenting in both males and females.

From Quanta Magazine