[The role of neuropeptide Y in anxiety]

Neuropeptide Y (NPY), one of the most abundant peptides in the mammalian brain, is implicated in the control of many physiological processes. It is also suggested the involvement of NPY in several neuropsychiatric illnesses. This review summarizes the present knowledge concerning the role of NPY in anxiety and discusses probable sites and receptors involved in the anxiolytic-like effect of NPY as well as interactions between the NPY and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) systems. The possible role of the NPY system in human psychopathological conditions associated with anxiety is also reviewed. Based on our data, we suggest that the NPY system is involved in antianxiety effects of diazepam and buspirone.