A Mini‑Review on Potential of Neuropeptides as Future Therapeutics

Abstract

Neuropeptides are small protein like messenger molecules that are involved in regulation of various activities in living species. These neuropeptides have been isolated from variety of sources ranging from small insects to mammals. They regulate multiple activities and functions of body in both vertebrates and invertebrates. A wide range of neuropeptides have been isolated from different invertebrate species like insects, bees, beetles, drosophila to understand role of peptide sequences in controlling homeostasis and behavior. Along with more than 100 peptides have been identified in mammals and most of them are synthesized and secreted by hypothalamus. Neuropeptides not only act via nervous system but some of them also act peripherally through endocrine systems to regulate various functions. Further, they are involved in regulation of functions like cell signaling, respiration, growth, social behavior, reproduction, inflammation, stress, anxiety, sexual activity, glucose homeostasis, feeding behavior, memory and learning. Common known neuropeptides, involved in different regulation mechanisms, are oxytocin, vasopressin, orexins, bradykinin, neuropeptide Y, tachykinins, opiod neuropeptides, angiotensin, somatostatin, ghrelin, galanin and hemokinins. Not only this, neuropeptides are also involved in management of diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinsonism, Seizures and epilepsy, diabetes, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea and various skin diseases. Diversified roles of neuropeptides make them promising candidates for prospective therapeutics. A lot of research has been done on antimicrobial peptides but research works related to neuropeptides has received attention of researchers recently only. This review sheds light on various neuropeptides involved in regulation and control of body functions in living species.