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Biology of neurotensin: revisited study.

Authors :
Katsanos GS
Anogianaki A
Castellani ML
Ciampoli C
De Amicis D
Orso C
Pollice R
Vecchiet J
Tetè S
Salini V
Caraffa A
Patruno A
Shaik YB
Kempuraj D
Doyle R
Antinolfi PL
Cerulli G
Conti CM
Fulcheri M
Neri G
Sabatino G
Source :
International journal of immunopathology and pharmacology [Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol] 2008 Apr-Jun; Vol. 21 (2), pp. 255-9.
Publication Year :
2008

Abstract

The tridecapeptide neurotensin (NT) acts in the mammalian brain as a primary neurotransmitter or neuromodulator of classical neurotransmitters. Morphological and functional in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated the existence of close interactions between NT and dopamine both in limbic and in striatal brain regions. Additionally, biochemical and neurochemical evidence indicates that in these brain regions NT also plays a crucial role in the regulation of the aminoacidergic signalling. Immune cells, such as lymphocytes, macrophages and mast cells are reported to be activated by neuropeptides, such as neurotensin; this activation leads to cytokine and immunoglobulin production. In addition, neurotensin increases calcium level and the production of nitric oxide. Therefore neurotensin is deeply involved in immunity and inflammation but its real function still remains to be elucidated.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
0394-6320
Volume :
21
Issue :
2
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
International journal of immunopathology and pharmacology
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
18547468
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1177/039463200802100201