| Modification Notes |
Gastrin is responsible for the stimulation of various digestive functions (1). In response to gastrin, the stomach mucosa produces and secretes hydrochloric acid, and the pancreas secretes digestive enzymes (1). Gastrin also stimulates smooth muscle contraction and increases blood circulation and water secretion in the stomach and intestine (1). Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a neurotransmitter in the brain that is involved in satiety, stress and anxiety (2,3). CCK is expressed in the gastrointestinal (GI) system as well as the central nervous system (CNS), which provides further evidence that CCK modulates food consumption (2,4). Both CCK and gastrin mediate their effects through two G protein coupled receptors, CCK-AR and CCK-BR (2-4). CCK preferentially binds CCK-AR with high affinity, whereas CCK-BR binds to gastrin and CCK with nearly equal affinities (3,5,6). The cholecystokinin receptors and their ligands are potential therapeutic targets for GI or CNS diseases (2,4). |