Review of neuropeptide G protein-coupled receptors in neuroendocrinology

Abstract

Introduction. A neuropeptide is a protein substance produced and released by neurons that acts on neuronal targets. Humans possess a wide variety of neuropeptides that influence a broad range of physiological and behavioral activities. The primary functions of neuropeptides include the regulation of appetite, growth, water balance, and lipid and glucose metabolism. Most neuropeptides exert their effects through G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which constitute the largest family of cell membrane receptors. Neuropeptides and their GPCRs are associated with a number of pathological conditions, including obesity, infertility, growth retardation, pain, narcolepsy, diabetes insipidus, gastrointestinal diseases, and mood disorders. Elucidating the role of neuropeptide GPCRs in the rapidly evolving field of neuroendocrinology is an urgent task in modern medicine.