Possible role(s) of neurokinins in CNS development and neurodegenerative or other disorders

The present review is an attempt to summarize the diverse literature that suggests a role for neurokinins in a variety of CNS developmental or disease processes. The role of neurokinins in (anti)nociception is well known and is the subject of other comprehensive reviews. The focus of this review is on associations that implicate substance P or other neurokinins in certain aspects of CNS development and in various neuropathologic disorders that have neurodegenerative, psychiatric or other clinical manifestations. Also included are associations related to the central control of some "peripheral" functions. The amount of and degree of evidence for neurokinin involvement in each situation vary from strong to speculative--critical analyses and commentaries on individual methodologies and studies are available from other sources. When viewed in this broad context, the information suggests intrinsic neuroprotective or neurodegenerative properties of neurokinins. It is proposed that these properties delineate a specialized area within the broader field of neurokinin research.