| 释义 |
neuropeptide, n. Biochem.|njʊərəʊˈpɛptaɪd|
[f. neuro- + peptide n.]
Any short-chain protein in the nervous system which is capable of acting as a neurotransmitter.
1975Nature 13 Feb. 499/2 The idea that pituitary neuropeptides can influence behaviour by a direct action on the central nervous system is a recent one. 1980[see releasable a.]. 1985Sci. Amer. Aug. 36/1 Neuropeptides are short amino acid chains, some of which act both as neurotransmitters when released by neurons and as hormones when secreted by endocrine glands. 1987Economist 26 Dec. 105/3 Neuropeptides, like other neurotransmitters, can be on/off switches; or they can act more subtly by amplifying or dampening a nerve signal. |