Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide (CGRP)

Calcitonin-related peptide hormones

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), calcitonin (CT), adrenomedullin (ADM) and amylin belong to a unique group of calcitonin-related peptide hormones important for homeostasis in diverse tissues. The calcitonin family of peptides act through G-protein coupled membrane receptors.

Calcitonin, is essential for calcium balance, whereas CGRP and ADM are important for neurotransmission and cardiovascular and respiratory function.

CGRP is a 37-amino acid neuropeptide produced by tissue specific processing of the calcitonin gene and is the major product in neural tissues. In humans, CGRP exists as two forms: α-CGRP and β-CGRP. It is a potent vasodilator, plays a role in nociception and increases heart rate.

References

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