neuropeptide

American  

[noor-oh-pep-tahyd, nyoor-] / ˌnʊər oʊˈpɛp taɪd, ˌnyʊər- /

noun

1. any of various short-chain peptides, as endorphins, that function as neuromodulators in the nervous system and as hormones in the endocrine system.

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neuropeptide British  

/ ˌnjʊərəʊˈpɛptaɪd /

noun

1. a peptide produced by neural tissue, esp one with hormonal activity

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Etymology

Origin of neuropeptide

First recorded in 1970–75; neuro- + peptide

Example Sentences

And could the effect of these be boosted by doses of the chemical messenger oxytocin, a neuropeptide that helps affectionate interactions make us feel better physically and emotionally?

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 4, 2025

Interestingly, a similar increase was also observed in the levels of another stress neuropeptide closely related to PACAP, the calcitonin gene-related peptide, or CGRP.

From Science Daily • Dec. 1, 2023

The researchers hypothesize that somewhere back in our distant evolutionary past, a genetic switch in our ancestors’ brain must have sent neuropeptide Y production into overdrive.

From Scientific American • Sep. 11, 2023

Exercise, by up-regulating neuropeptide Y, helps soothe the anxious amygdala, dial down the fear and hyper-vigilance and keep us calmer.

From New York Times • Mar. 30, 2022

A neuropeptide is a neurotransmitter molecule made up of chains of amino acids connected by peptide bonds.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013