Neuropeptide VF precursor (NPVF)

Neuropeptide VF precursor (NPVF) is a propeptide encoded by the NPVF gene in mammals, primarily expressed in the neurons of the mediobasal hypothalamus[1][5]. The precursor protein is processed into three neuropeptides: Neuropeptide SF (RFRP-1/NPSF), RFRP-2, and Neuropeptide VF (RFRP-3/NPVF)[1][2]. These peptides are members of the RFamide family, characterized by a conserved Arg-Phe amide C-terminus, and act upon G protein-coupled receptors NPFF1 and NPFF2[1][3][4]. NPVF-derived peptides have diverse physiological roles, including inhibition of gonadotropin secretion (homologous to avian gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone), regulation of sleep, and modulation of nociceptive/pain pathways via anti-opioid effects[1][3][5]. The hypothalamic NPVF circuit also connects to serotonergic centers such as the ventral raphe nucleus, influencing responses to noxious stimuli[3][5]. Antagonists such as RF9 have highlighted the functional importance of NPVF/NPFF signaling in reproductive, sleep, temperature regulation, and pain pathways[1][4].

Other names

Pro-FMRFamide-related neuropeptide VFNeuropeptide NPSFNeuropeptide RFRP-1Neuropeptide RFRP-2Neuropeptide RFRP-3RFamide-related peptide precursorFMRFamide-related peptide precursorC7orf9RFRPFMRFamide-related peptideFMRFamide-related peptidesRFamide-related peptideneuropeptide NPVF

Agonist at NPFF1 and NPFF2 G protein-coupled receptors (for RFRP-1/NPSF and NPVF/RFRP-3 peptides)[1][2][3][4]. Antagonist activity (RF9 blocks NPFF-mediated effects, including pain and hypothermia)[1][4].