This gene encodes a neuropeptide that is widely expressed in the central nervous system and influences many physiological processes, including cortical excitability, stress response, food intake, circadian rhythms, and cardiovascular function. The neuropeptide functions through G protein-coupled receptors to inhibit adenylyl cyclase, activate mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), regulate intracellular calcium levels, and activate potassium channels. A polymorphism in this gene resulting in a change of leucine 7 to proline in the signal peptide is associated with elevated cholesterol levels, higher alcohol consumption, and may be a risk factor for various metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The protein also exhibits antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi. [provided by RefSeq, Oct 2014],function:NPY is implicated in the control of feeding and in secretion of gonadotrophin-release hormone.,online information:Neuropeptide Y entry,similarity:Belongs to the NPY family.,tissue specificity:One of the most abundant peptides in the nervous system. Also found in some chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla.,
