neuropeptide hormone activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

The action characteristic of a neuropeptide hormone, any peptide hormone that acts in the central nervous system. A neuropeptide is any of several types of molecules found in brain tissue, composed of short chains of amino acids; they include endorphins, enkephalins, vasopressin, and others. They are often localized in axon terminals at synapses and are classified as putative neurotransmitters, although some are also hormones. [GOC:mah]

Neuropeptide hormone activity is a molecular function that describes the ability of a protein or peptide to act as a hormone in the nervous system. Neuropeptide hormones are synthesized and released by neurons, and they act as signaling molecules that can affect a wide range of physiological processes, including:

- **Neurotransmission:** Neuropeptide hormones can act as neurotransmitters, modulating the activity of other neurons.
- **Hormonal regulation:** They can also act as hormones, influencing the function of other organs and tissues.
- **Physiological processes:** Neuropeptide hormones are involved in a variety of physiological processes, including:
- **Stress response:** Neuropeptides like corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) are involved in the body's response to stress.
- **Pain perception:** Neuropeptides like endorphins and enkephalins are involved in pain modulation.
- **Appetite and satiety:** Neuropeptides like leptin and ghrelin regulate appetite and energy expenditure.
- **Sleep-wake cycles:** Neuropeptides like orexin and melatonin regulate sleep patterns.
- **Mood and emotion:** Neuropeptides like serotonin and dopamine are involved in regulating mood and emotions.
- **Reproduction:** Neuropeptides like gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) are involved in regulating reproductive function.

**Mechanism of Action:**
Neuropeptide hormones exert their effects by binding to specific receptors on target cells. These receptors are typically G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which activate intracellular signaling pathways that lead to changes in gene expression, enzyme activity, or other cellular processes.

**Examples of Neuropeptide Hormones:**
- Vasopressin
- Oxytocin
- Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)
- Substance P
- Cholecystokinin (CCK)
- Neuropeptide Y (NPY)
- Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH)
- Somatostatin'

Please note that this description is a simplified overview of a complex and diverse field. There is much more to learn about the molecular function of neuropeptide hormone activity.
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