Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ADCYAP1 gene. It is a member of the secretin family of hormones and plays a critical role in the functioning of the central nervous system and the endocrine system.

Function[edit | edit source]

PACAP is a potent activator of adenylate cyclase, an enzyme involved in the production of cyclic AMP, a key messenger molecule in cells. It is involved in the regulation of numerous physiological processes, including neurotransmission, cell proliferation, and hormone secretion.

Structure[edit | edit source]

PACAP is a 38-amino acid peptide that shares significant structural similarities with other members of the secretin family, including vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH).

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Alterations in PACAP function have been implicated in a variety of diseases, including migraine, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and schizophrenia. It is also being investigated as a potential therapeutic target for these and other conditions.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

‎ ‎


Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD