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The prolactin releasing peptides: RF-amide peptides
1Department of Pharmacological and Physiological Science, Saint Louis University, School of Medicine, Missouri 63104, USA.
Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences : CMLS
|October 2, 2001
Summary
Dopamine controls prolactin, but new peptides may act as neuroactive agents. These prolactin-releasing peptides have widespread brain distribution and diverse central nervous system functions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Dopamine is the primary hypothalamic regulator of prolactin release from the anterior pituitary.
- Evidence suggests the existence of an additional, yet unidentified, prolactin-releasing factor (PRF) in the brain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of recently isolated peptides, termed prolactin-releasing peptides, in prolactin regulation.
- To determine if these peptides function as PRFs or as broader neuroactive agents.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and characterization of two novel peptides derived from the same prohormone.
- Assessment of the prolactin-releasing activity of these peptides.
- Mapping the distribution of these peptides and their receptors within the brain.
Main Results:
- The isolated peptides exhibited significant prolactin-releasing activity in preliminary studies.
- Widespread distribution of these peptides was observed throughout the brain.
- Receptors for these peptides were found in brain regions unrelated to neuroendocrine control.
- These peptides were shown to activate the autonomic nervous system.
Conclusions:
- The identified peptides may not function solely as prolactin-releasing factors.
- Their extensive distribution and receptor presence suggest a role as neuroactive agents in various central nervous system circuits.
- These peptides are potentially involved in diverse brain functions beyond prolactin regulation.