Neurotensin is an endogenous neurotransmitter and hormone, found in both neuronal synaptic vesicles, and in neuroendocrine cells in the periphery. Neurotensin acts through three receptors and is involved in several important biological functions, including analgesia and hypothermia, and also food intake and glucose homeostasis. Neurotensin receptors also have a role in promoting tumour cell proliferation, migration and DNA synthesis. Expression of neurotensin and its receptors has been correlated to cancer prognosis and prediction of treatment.
