NEUROPEPTIDES Meaning and
Definition
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Neuropeptides are a class of small protein-like molecules that function as signaling molecules in the brain and nervous system. They are produced by neurons and act as chemical messengers, transmitting information between nerve cells.
Neuropeptides play crucial roles in various physiological processes, including pain perception, stress response, mood regulation, appetite control, and sleep regulation. They are involved in the modulation of both neuronal and synaptic activity, affecting the strength and efficiency of communication between neurons.
These molecules are typically synthesized in the cell body of neurons as larger precursors, known as propeptides, which are then transported to the nerve endings. At the nerve endings, the propeptides are cleaved into smaller active peptide molecules, called neuropeptides. The neuropeptides are then released into the synapse, where they can bind to specific receptors on neighboring neurons, initiating a cascade of events that ultimately influence neuronal function.
Neuropeptides are diverse in structure and function, with numerous types identified in the human nervous system. Some well-known examples include endorphins, which are involved in pain relief and reward pathways, and oxytocin, which plays a role in social bonding and trust.
The study of neuropeptides has led to important insights into the functioning of the brain and nervous system, and they are considered promising targets for therapeutic interventions in various neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Common Misspellings for NEUROPEPTIDES
- beuropeptides
- meuropeptides
- jeuropeptides
- heuropeptides
- nwuropeptides
- nsuropeptides
- nduropeptides
- nruropeptides
- n4uropeptides
- n3uropeptides
- neyropeptides
- nehropeptides
- nejropeptides
- neiropeptides
- ne8ropeptides
- ne7ropeptides
- neueopeptides
- neudopeptides
- neufopeptides
- neutopeptides
Etymology of NEUROPEPTIDES
The word "neuropeptides" is derived from the combination of two terms: "neuro" and "peptides".
1. Neuro: The term "neuro" comes from the Greek word "neuron", meaning "sinew" or "nerve". It has been used in English since the early 19th century to refer to various aspects related to nerves or the nervous system.
2. Peptides: The term "peptide" refers to a short chain of amino acids connected by peptide bonds. It comes from the Greek word "peptos", meaning "digested" or "ripe". Peptides are the building blocks of proteins and are involved in various biological functions.
Therefore, "neuropeptides" refers to a specific group of peptides that are produced and released by neurons in the nervous system.
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