neuropeptide

American  

[noor-oh-pep-tahyd, nyoor-] / ˌnʊər oʊˈpɛp taɪd, ˌnyʊər- /

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.

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neuropeptide British  

/ ˌnjʊərəʊˈpɛptaɪd /

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of neuropeptide

First recorded in 1970–75; neuro- + peptide

Example Sentences

And could the effect of these be boosted by doses of the chemical messenger oxytocin, a neuropeptide that helps affectionate interactions make us feel better physically and emotionally?

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 4, 2025

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 • Jan. 4, 2024

Other researchers, however, express more skepticism about neuropeptide Y’s significance in human evolution.

From Scientific American • Sep. 11, 2023

Exercise, by up-regulating neuropeptide Y, helps soothe the anxious amygdala, dial down the fear and hyper-vigilance and keep us calmer.

From New York Times • Mar. 30, 2022

A neuropeptide is a neurotransmitter molecule made up of chains of amino acids connected by peptide bonds.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013