Physiology of neuropeptides

Objectives. In the present review, the characteristics of mammalian neuropeptides have been studied. Development. Neuropeptides are widely distributed not only in the nervous system but also in the periphery. They are synthesized by neurons as large precursor molecules (pre-propeptides) which have to be cleaved and modified in order to form the mature neuropeptides. Neuropeptides may exert actions as neurotransmitters, neuromodulators and/or neurohormones. In the neurons, they coexist with classic transmitters and often with other peptides. After their releasing, they bind to specific receptors to exert their action in the target cell. Most of these receptors belongs to a family of G protein coup led receptors. Fin ally, peptidases are the enzymes involved in the degradation of neuropeptides. Conclusions. In the last years, the number of known neuropeptides and the understanding of their functions have been increased. With these data, present investigations are looking for the treatment of different pathologies associated with alterations in the physiology of neuropeptides.