neurotensin

Neurotensin is an endogenous tridecapeptide neuropeptide first identified in extracts of bovine hypothalamus. It acts as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator in the central nervous system and periphery. Neurotensin exerts its biological effects primarily through two G protein-coupled receptors, NTS1 and NTS2. It modulates dopaminergic signaling, influences thermoregulation (can induce hypothermia), provides neuroprotection in models of cerebral ischemia, and is a potent mitogen for colorectal cancer cells. Neurotensin has been implicated in the pathophysiology of several conditions including schizophrenia (as an endogenous antipsychotic-like agent), substance use disorders, pain modulation (analgesic effects independent of opioids), cancer proliferation (notably colorectal cancer), and uterine fibroids[1][2][5].

Other names

NTNTS