Neuropeptide Y (3-36) Human,Rat – Neuroscience Peptides

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is a peptide involved in the gut-brain axis. Neurons express it in both the brain and the gut. However, expression is significantly increased upon nerve injury. NPY is the most abundant neuropeptide within the brain and is expressed by many neuronal systems, and several important pathways utilising NPY as a neurotransmitter have been identified. Mammalian NPY acts as a vasoconstrictor by affecting blood pressure around peripheral nerves, while it also acts on food intake and emotional regulation. The primary receptor subtypes on which NPY acts in the brain are the Y1 and Y2 receptors but also include Y4, Y5 and y6 (a human pseudogene). Y1 and Y2 increase blood pressure, Y1 and Y5 increase food intake, and Y2 and Y4 decrease food intake. NPY has been linked to psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression. Low levels of NPY have been observed in patients with major depressive disorder. Rodent models are used to understand better NPY and its receptors’ role in emotional regulation.