Neuropeptides are small protein-like molecules (peptides) used by neurons to communicate with each other. They play a significant role in brain function and can influence a wide variety of physiological processes including pain perception, stress response, appetite regulation, and neuroendocrine function. Neuropeptides are synthesized in the cell body of neurons and then transported to the nerve terminals, where they are stored in vesicles.
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A neuropeptide is a peptide used for signaling by neurons. A neuropeptide can act through a receptor to alter the excitability or responsiveness of a target, often contributing to neuromodulation.
One neuron can release a neuropeptide together with another neurotransmitter, an example of co-transmission. Identifying the cell by one signal therefore does not mean an experimental manipulation changes only that molecule's action.