Neuropeptides as biologial system integrators – mini review

This paper provides a review on the emerging role of neuropeptides for body systems integration. Neuropeptides are small protein-like substances that are released into the synaptic space and/or the blood, hence, acting as neurotransmitters and neurohormones. Classically, their role has been viewed as integrating the central nervous system and the endocrine system. More recently, however, there is an emerging understanding that neuropeptides integrate many more body systems into a larger cohesive body response that involves basic body functions, behavior, and mind. One indication is the discovery that neurohormones are also produced by many peripheral tissues and that non-neuronal peptides are released by neurons as well. Examples from the gastrointestinal and the immune system are presented. With the emerging role of neuropeptides for systems integration, immense opportunities arise for their use as pharmacological agents and biomarkers in the diagnosis and treatment of countless disorders such as chronic inflammatory diseases and obesity.