Neuropeptide signaling pathway

The neuropeptide signaling pathway encompasses a vast network of processes by which neurons synthesize, process, and release neuropeptides—short chains of amino acids that act as neurotransmitters or hormones. These neuropeptides bind to receptors (mainly G protein-coupled receptors or GPCRs) on target cells to regulate neural activity and diverse physiological processes, such as feeding, pain, mood, and metabolism. This class of signaling pathways is notably ancient and highly conserved, with more than 6,000 neuropeptides discovered across species. Neuropeptide signaling is therapeutically relevant in numerous diseases (e.g., neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, metabolic syndromes). Drug discovery often focuses on individual neuropeptides or their receptors rather than the pathway as a whole.

Other names

Neuropeptidergic signalingNeuropeptide pathwayPeptidergic signaling cascades

Agonism/antagonism of GPCRs; Modulation of synaptic transmission; Neuroendocrine signal amplification or dampening