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Corticotropin releasing factor and its binding protein
P J Lowry1, R J Woods, S Baigent
1School of Animal and Microbial Sciences, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Berkshire, UK. p.j.lowry@reading.ac.uk
Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior
|May 1, 1996
Summary
Plasma binding protein (pBP) may bind novel brain and peripheral ligands, not just corticotropin releasing factor (CRF). This suggests pBP plays broader roles in regulating CRF-like activities in various tissues and disease states.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- High levels of placental corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) normally lack ACTH releasing activity due to a plasma binding protein (pBP).
- pBP distribution in the brain shows limited overlap with CRF, and pBP levels increase in inflammatory diseases.
- CRF-related functions are often attributed to brain, peripheral, or immune systems, but endogenous CRF evidence is sometimes lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential novel ligands for the plasma binding protein (pBP) beyond corticotropin releasing factor (CRF).
- To explore the broader biological roles of pBP in the brain and periphery, particularly in inflammatory conditions.
Main Methods:
- Searched for novel pBP ligands in sheep brain extracts.
- Analyzed synovial fluid from arthritic patients for the presence of pBP ligands.
Main Results:
- Evidence for novel pBP ligands was found in sheep brain extracts.
- Novel pBP ligands were also detected in synovial fluid from arthritic patients.
Conclusions:
- The identified novel ligands may be responsible for functions previously attributed to brain, peripheral, or immune CRF.
- pBP likely interacts with various ligands, suggesting a more complex regulatory role than previously understood, especially in inflammatory diseases.