Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is a 36-amino-acid polypeptide belonging to the pancreatic polypeptide family; it is widely distributed throughout the mammalian central and peripheral nervous systems and is one of the most abundant neuropeptides. It was first discovered in porcine brain tissue by Tatemoto et al. in 1982.
NPY has a short plasma half-life and does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier, posing challenges for its clinical translation as a therapeutic agent. Experimental antagonists targeting peripheral Y1 receptors (such as BIBO3304) have been designed to avoid crossing the blood-brain barrier in order to minimize central nervous system side effects. When handling NPY in an experimental setting, the use of protective equipment-such as eye protection, gloves, and an N95-rated (or equivalent P1 standard) respirator-is recommended.
