What is the Origin of Neurotransmitter Peptides?

Their identification originated from the field of neurochemistry, recognizing that neuronal vesicles contained more than just small-molecule transmitters. This expanded the known repertoire of signaling molecules in the brain.

What is the Mechanism of Neurotransmitter Peptides?

These peptides bind to specific G-protein coupled receptors on postsynaptic neurons, initiating slower, longer-lasting cellular changes compared to ionotropic receptors. Their release pattern and subsequent receptor occupancy can significantly alter neuronal plasticity and long-term potentiation.

Neurotransmitter Peptides ∞ Area

Neurotransmitter Peptides

Meaning

Neurotransmitter Peptides are chains of amino acids, typically less than 50 units long, that function as chemical messengers in the nervous system, often co-released with classical neurotransmitters. They serve to modulate synaptic activity over extended temporal scales. We view them as crucial modulators of complex neural circuits.