Neurologically active peptides.
This paper reviews recent evidence that a number of small peptides found in the brain are active in the central nervous system and behaviorally. Attention is focused on MSH/ACTH 4-10, alpha- and beta-MSH, and the prohormone beta-LPH, as they produce a syndrome of yawning and stretching. Studies with substance P and mainly with MIF-I are also reviewed. It is shown that substance P is an excitatory transmitter or modulator in the dorsal spinal cord with that MIF-I has antiparkinson properties. It is concluded that many polypeptides have direct actions on the central nervous system independent of their neuroendocrine properties.
Neurologically active peptides. This paper reviews recent evidence that a number of small peptides found in the brain are active in the central nervous system and behaviorally. Attention is focused on MSH/ACTH 4-10, alpha- and beta-MSH, and the prohormone beta-LPH, as they produce a syndrome of yawning and stretching. Studies with substance P and mainly with MIF-I are also reviewed. It is shown that substance P is an excitatory transmitter or modulator in the dorsal spinal cord with that MIF-I has antiparkinson properties. It is concluded that many polypeptides have direct actions on the central nervous system independent of their neuroendocrine properties.