http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7515354
Galanin is a
neuropeptide encoded by the
GAL gene,
[1] that is widely expressed in the brain, spinal cord, and gut of humans as well as other mammals. Galanin signaling occurs through three
G protein-coupled receptors.
[2]
The functional role of galanin remains largely unknown; however, galanin is predominately involved in the modulation and inhibition of
action potentials in
neurons. Galanin has been implicated in many biologically diverse functions, including:
nociception, waking and sleep regulation, cognition, feeding, regulation of mood, regulation of blood pressure, it also has roles in development as well as acting as a
trophic factor.
[3] Galanin is linked to a number of diseases including
Alzheimer’s disease,
epilepsy as well as
depression,
eating disorders and
cancer.
[4][5] Galanin appears to have
neuroprotective activity as its biosynthesis is increased 2-10 fold upon
axotomy in the
peripheral nervous system as well as when seizure activity occurs in the brain. It may also promote
neurogenesis.
[2]
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galanin