Substance P and neuropsychiatric disorders: an overview.
Substance P (SP) is a naturally-occurring tachykinin peptide isolated from brain tissues and gastrointestinal tract. In the brain, substantia nigra and basal ganglia contain relatively high amounts of substance P. There is evidence suggesting that substance P functions as a neurotransmitter. It has been implicated in the pathophysiology of several neuropsychiatric disorders. Substance P may also serve as a useful tool in studying the effects of antidepressant drugs and electroconvulsive therapy. However, the contribution of substance P to the understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders is far from clear. Future studies should focus on the interactions and coexistence of substance P with other neurotransmitters and neuropeptides.
Malek-Ahmadi
P
P
Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock 79430.
D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology; D013373:Substance P / Q000502:physiology*
D013373:Substance P