Tachykinin precursor 1 (TAC1)

Tachykinin precursor 1 (TAC1) is a protein-coding gene encoding the precursor protein preprotachykinin-1 (PPT-1), which is processed to yield several bioactive neuropeptides: substance P, neurokinin A, neuropeptide K, and neuropeptide gamma. These neuropeptides play essential roles as neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, mediating diverse biological functions such as pain transmission, inflammatory responses, smooth muscle contraction, vasodilation, behavioral modulation, and tissue healing. TAC1-derived peptides exert their effects primarily through binding to neurokinin receptors (mainly NK1 and NK2, which are G protein–coupled receptors) on target tissues. Aberrant TAC1 activity or peptide expression has been implicated in inflammatory, neuropathic, psychiatric, oncologic, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases. Clinically, drugs such as NK1 receptor antagonists have therapeutic relevance for conditions like chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, highlighting the pathway’s pharmacological importance.

Other names

Protachykinin-1Preprotachykinin-1PPT-1Substance P (as a processed peptide product, not the precursor)Neurokinin A (processed peptide)Neuropeptide K (processed peptide)Neuropeptide gamma (processed peptide)TAC1NKANKNANPKPPTNeuromedin LSubstance KHs.2563NK2

NK1 receptor antagonists: Block substance P from binding neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptors, thereby reducing nausea, vomiting, and inflammatory or pain signals. Potential modulation of neuroimmune responses and neuronal activity via downstream inhibition of SP/NK1 pathway