title: Possible dual role for vasoactive intestinal peptide as gastrointestinal hormone and neurotransmitter substance.
abstract: Vasoactive intestinal peptide (V.I.P.) has been found in high concentrations both in the gastrointestinal tract and, unexpectedly, in the central nervous system. Immunocytochemical studies have demonstrated V.I.P. in nerve-fibers. These findings challenge the concept of V.I.P. as a simple gastrointestinal hormone and suggest a possible neurotransmitter function.
mesh_terms: D000311:Adrenal Glands / Q000032:analysis; D000818:Animals; D001659:Biliary Tract / Q000032:analysis; D001923:Brain Chemistry; D002850:Chromatography, Gel; D005455:Fluorescent Antibody Technique; D005768:Gastrointestinal Hormones / Q000032:analysis / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice; D009413:Nerve Fibers, Myelinated / Q000032:analysis; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000032:analysis / Q000502:physiology*; D010179:Pancreas / Q000032:analysis; D010455:Peptides / Q000032:analysis / Q000502:physiology*; D010902:Pituitary Gland / Q000032:analysis; D011863:Radioimmunoassay; D051381:Rats; D012469:Salivary Glands / Q000032:analysis; D013552:Swine; D001743:Urinary Bladder / Q000032:analysis
chemical_list: D005768:Gastrointestinal Hormones; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents; D010455:Peptides