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PACAP

Meaning

PACAP is the acronym for Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide, a pleiotropic neuropeptide hormone that functions as a potent neuromodulator and neurotrophic factor throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems, as well as in various endocrine tissues. This peptide plays a crucial role in stress response, circadian rhythm regulation, and the control of pituitary hormone secretion, demonstrating a significant influence on the overall neuroendocrine axis. PACAP’s widespread distribution and diverse biological actions underscore its importance in integrating nervous system signals with hormonal output, impacting physiological functions from metabolism to reproductive health.