What Are Neurotrophic Peptides?
Neurotrophic peptides, or neuropeptides, are a subclass of peptides expressed in the nervous tissue. They work as neurotransmitters or hormones to influence a wide range of physiological conditions and behaviours [1, 2]. In particular, they are involved in processes including metabolism, regeneration and also development [3].
Neuropeptides are produced from a larger neuropeptide precursor (NPP) [3, 4].
Neurotrophic peptides have been reported to have neurotrophic and neuroprotective properties. They contribute to the acceleration of nerve repair after injury and also help to improve both sensory and motor function [5]. In addition, they have been associated with other physiological activities for instance myotropic activities, pheromonotropic activities, etc [6].
From the perspective of neurodegenerative diseases, neuropeptides show to be promising in therapeutic agents. Their neuroprotective function protects cells from toxicity. They mimic the neurotrophic action of nerve growth factor, which may restore axonal connectivity in neurodegenerative processes [7].
In addition, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) also shows to have neuroprotective effects [7, 8]. BDNF is the most abundant neurotrophin in the mammalian brain. It is involved in synaptic plasticity and low levels of BDNF are implicated in the pathophysiology of neurological diseases (including Alzheimer’s disease). Contrary, a healthy lifestyle, exercise and dietary modifications can up-regulate the levels of BDNF [9].
Another example of neuropeptide in the brain is neuropeptide Y (NPY). NPY is a small peptide widely distributed throughout the brain and it also shows neuroprotective functions. NPY also restores or sometimes even increases neurotrophin protein and mRNA in neuroblastoma cells [10].
Are neurotrophic peptides beneficial for my brain?
Neuropeptides also have protective effects against neurotoxicity. It has been shown that an injury-derived neurotrophic peptide protects hippocampal neurons from glutamate-induced neurotoxicity [10].
Although the neurotrophic peptides do show promises in animal models, their application in human disease treatment still needs to be researched.
How can neurotrophic peptides influence my brain health?
Neuropeptides can influence your brain health. They are essential for the health and well-being of the nervous system, mediating higher-order activities like learning, memory and behaviour [11].
Neurotrophins are also involved in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and Huntingto’s disease but also in mental health conditions like depression [12].
These peptides can be delivered to brain using nanotechnology, offering protection against degradation, enhanced permeability of barrier membranes and intrinsic therapeutic properties of the nanoparticles [13]. However such needs to be explored more so the approach can be implemented into clinical applications [13].
In conclusion, neurotrophic peptides can significantly influence brain health by promoting neuron survival, enhancing learning and memory, and potentially offering therapeutic benefits for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.