The NPB/NPW neuropeptide system and its role in regulating energy homeostasis, pain, and emotion

Results Probl Cell Differ. 2008:46:239-56. doi: 10.1007/400_2007_056.

Abstract

Neuropeptide B (NPB) and neuropeptide W (NPW) are neuropeptides that were recently identified as endogenous ligands for the previously orphan G-protein coupled receptors, GPR7 (NPBWR1) and GPR8 (NPBWR2). This neuropeptide system is thought to have a role in regulating feeding behavior, energy homeostasis, neuroendocrine function, and modulating inflammatory pain. Strong and discrete expression of their receptors in the extended amygdala suggests a potential role in regulating stress responses, emotion, anxiety and fear; however, there have been no functional studies to date to support this possibility. Future studies of NPB/NPW using both pharmacological and phenotypic analysis of genetically engineered mice will lead to further elucidation of the physiological role of this novel neuropeptide system.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Animals
  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • Homeostasis*
  • Ligands
  • Mice
  • Mice, Transgenic
  • Models, Biological
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Neuropeptides / chemistry
  • Neuropeptides / physiology*
  • Phenotype
  • Sequence Homology, Amino Acid
  • Structure-Activity Relationship

Substances

  • Ligands
  • Neuropeptides
  • neuropeptide B
  • neuropeptide W, mouse