Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide: Protective effects in stroke and dementia

Peptides. 2020 Aug:130:170332. doi: 10.1016/j.peptides.2020.170332. Epub 2020 May 21.

Abstract

Evidence shows that pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) improves stroke outcomes and dementia. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) controls the peptide and regulatory protein exchange between the central nervous system and the blood; the transport of these regulatory substances across the BBB has been altered in animal models of stroke and Alzheimer's disease (AD). PACAP is a powerful neurotrophin that can cross the BBB, which may aid in the therapy of neurodegenerative diseases, including stroke and AD. PACAP may function as a potential drug in the treatment, prevention, or management of stroke and AD and other neurodegenerative conditions. Here, we review the effects of PACAP in studies on stroke and dementias.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease; Amyloid beta protein; Dementia; Neurotrophin; Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide; Stroke.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease / drug therapy
  • Alzheimer Disease / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Blood-Brain Barrier / drug effects
  • Blood-Brain Barrier / metabolism
  • Dementia / metabolism
  • Dementia / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Learning / physiology
  • Memory / physiology
  • Neuroprotective Agents / pharmacology*
  • Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide / metabolism
  • Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide / pharmacology*
  • Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide / physiology*
  • Stroke / drug therapy*

Substances

  • ADCYAP1 protein, human
  • Neuroprotective Agents
  • Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide