Evidence of a specific pancreatic polypeptide receptor in rat arterial smooth muscle

Pancreatic polypeptide (PP) is a member of the PP fold family of regulatory peptides. Studies have shown that neuropeptide Y, peptide YY, and PP increased gastrointestinal motility. The GI effects of neuropeptide Y and peptide YY were accompanied by an increase in mean arterial blood pressure; however, PP decreased mean arterial blood pressure. Cloning of a receptor of the neuropeptide Y family with high affinity for PP has been reported. This Y4 receptor is present in intestine, pancreas, and prostate, and its mRNA has been detected in brain and coronary artery. We found in vitro evidence of PP-mediated inhibition of arterial neurogenic vasoconstriction. We have also detected Y4 mRNA in rat peripheral arteries. These findings suggest a potential role for the Y4 receptor in regulating vascular tone.