Biochemistry, Bombesin

Excerpt

Bombesin (BBS, BB), is a 14-amino acid neurohormone polypeptide, derived initially from amphibians with a wide range of physiological effects in the brain, lungs, and GI tract. Bombesin regulates gastrointestinal hormone release and gastrointestinal motility. Recently, studies have evaluated the role of bombesin in tumor growth, cellular proliferation, and inflammation. Research has also discovered several peptides structurally related to bombesin. Two well-studied homologs are called neuromedin B and gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP). The gastrin-releasing peptide is biologically and immunologically equivalent to bombesin, making GRP the mammalian equivalent. In addition to gastric neurohormonal impacts on the GI tract, the BN-like peptides have also been shown to modulate satiety, thermoregulation, glucose homeostasis, and circadian rhythms.