Limited proteolysis and physiological regulation: an example from thyrotropin-releasing hormone metabolism

Thyroid. 1998 Oct;8(10):969-75. doi: 10.1089/thy.1998.8.969.

Abstract

Proteases like trypsin, elastase, and many others play important regulatory functions by generating new biologically active molecules through limited proteolysis of larger proteins and peptides. The limited proteolysis of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) by Pyroglutamate aminopeptidase yields cyclo(His-Pro) or CHP, a new biopeptide associated with a variety of pharmacological activities, including regulation of body temperature, inhibition of prolactin secretion, and modulation of motor functions. Although the mechanism by which CHP elicits these biological activities is not well understood, it appears that the cyclic peptide may function at least in part by modulating central amine transport mechanisms.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Endopeptidases / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Neurotransmitter Uptake Inhibitors
  • Peptide Fragments / metabolism
  • Peptides, Cyclic / metabolism
  • Peptides, Cyclic / pharmacology
  • Piperazines / metabolism
  • Piperazines / pharmacology
  • Pyroglutamyl-Peptidase I / metabolism
  • Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone / metabolism*

Substances

  • Neurotransmitter Uptake Inhibitors
  • Peptide Fragments
  • Peptides, Cyclic
  • Piperazines
  • Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone
  • Endopeptidases
  • Pyroglutamyl-Peptidase I
  • histidyl-proline diketopiperazine