W. M. A. Verhoeven and J. M. van Ree: The putative clinical implications of neuropeptides
Hormones from the anterior and posterior lobes of the pituitary are essential for the homeostasis of the organism. In addition, fragments of these hormones which are devoid of the classical endocrine action of the parent hormone exhibit direct influences on brain functions, which became apparent from their action in behavior. These behavioral active peptides are called neuropeptides.
This review outlines the behavioral effects in animal as well as in man of neuropeptides derived from ACTH, vasopressin, oxytocin, the releasing and release-inhibiting factors and the endorphins.
Special attention is given to those neuropeptides which may have clinical significance like ACTH 4-10, des-glycinamide-vasopressin, thyrotropin releasing hormone and (des-tyrosinel)-y-endorphin.