Neuromedin S: discovery and functions

Abstract

Neuromedin S, a novel neuropeptide of 36 amino acids, was isolated from rat brain as an endogenous ligand for the orphan G protein-coupled receptors FM-3/GPR66 and FM-4/TGR-1, identified to date as type-1 and type-2 neuromedin U (NMU) receptors, respectively. The peptide was designated neuromedin S (NMS) because it is specifically expressed in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus. NMS is structurally related to NMU; these peptides share a C-terminal core structure. In this review, we will outline the recent discoveries regarding the structure, cognate receptors, distribution, and possible physiological functions of NMS.