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Published on: March 22, 2016
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide: Protective effects in stroke and dementia
Naoko Nonaka1, William A Banks2, Seiji Shioda3
1Department of Oral Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Showa University School of Dentistry, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
Abstract:
Evidence shows that pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) improves stroke outcomes and dementia. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) controls the peptide and regulatory protein exchange between the central nervous system and the blood; the transport of these regulatory substances across the BBB has been altered in animal models of stroke and Alzheimer's disease (AD). PACAP is a powerful neurotrophin that can cross the BBB, which may aid in the therapy of neurodegenerative diseases, including stroke and AD. PACAP may function as a potential drug in the treatment, prevention, or management of stroke and AD and other neurodegenerative conditions. Here, we review the effects of PACAP in studies on stroke and dementias.
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