P. Quinton – författare

Peptide Receptors Part I was published in 2000 (as volume 16 of the Handbook of Chemical Neuroanatomy series). This volume summarized current knowledge on the discrete anatomical distribution of ten families of neuropeptide receptors expressed in the mammalian CNS. Part II is its natural complementwith chapters covering six additional families of neuropeptide receptors for ligands ranging from well known peptides such as the opioids and neurotensin to recently isolated ones like the orexins. As in the case of Part I, this volume integrates photomontages and maps of quantitative receptor autoradiography, in situ hybridization histochemistry and immunocytochemistry.Data derived from transgenic and knock-out animals are also summarized, helping to decipher the possible physiological and Pathophysiological role(s) of a given peptide family. Some chapters also review current knowledge on the profile of internalization of the neuropeptide-receptor complex, an area of intense research activities that should help to better understand mechanisms involved in desensitization and tachyphylaxis.

During the last few years, the pace of research in the field of neuropeptide receptors has increased steadily: new neuropeptides were discovered, and the classification of receptor subtypes has been refined. It thus appeared essential to update the information. Peptide Receptors Part I summarizes current knowledge on ten distinct peptide families.This volume integrates photomontages and maps of quantitative receptor autoradiography, in situ hybridization histochemistry, and immunocytochemistry images. Application of these classical techniques and of new approaches such as transgenic and knock-out animals has revealed a distinct species and tissue specific variation in receptor subtypes expression and pharmacology in the mammalian central nervous system.The functional role of neuropeptides and their receptors in the CNS has been investigated thanks to the development of potent and selective receptor antagonists and agonists. The development of specific neuropeptide-related molecules will help to get a better understanding of receptor subtype physiology and neuronal distribution and may lead to innovative treatments in a variety of brain disorders.