Galanin (GAL) is a neuropeptide composed of 29 amino acids. It has wide range of expression in central and peripheral nervous system. It acts as a ligand for three G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) subtypes called GalR1, GalR2 and GalR3.
Galanin (GAL) is involved in multiple physiological actions such as, nociception, cognition, memory, hunger, hormone and neurotransmitter release, and cell growth. It also controls the release of gastric acid, plays a role in the contraction of intestines, and suppresses the secretion of pancreatic peptides. This peptide is up-regulated in colorectal cancer (CRC), which relates to aggressive phenotype and poor prognosis of patients with stage II CRC. Studies in Chinese Han female population show that polymorphisms in this gene are linked to susceptibility to depression.
