Neuropeptides rank among the phylogenetically oldest interneuronal
signal substances. In the concept of neuro-secretion they were
identified as neurohormones by which - via the blood - the brain
regulates peripheral functions. It is now evident that the neuropeptides
act as neurotransmitters/-modulators, as (neuro-)hormones, and paracrine
or autocrine signal substances in diverse parts of the body. This book
reviews, in several comprehensive articles written by distinguished
specialists, the state of the art in the field of neuropeptides and
peptidergic neurons. Special topics concern molecular aspects of
processing, release and degradation of neuropeptides, receptors and
signal transduction, comparative and behavioural aspects, and
immunoregulatory effects of neuropeptides and their involvement on
pathology of the central nervous system.