Cognitive · Neuropeptide
Kinetensin
Also known as Pep-1, Neuromedin N
A 9-amino acid peptide, Kinetensin is an agonist at neurotensin receptors used as an alternative ligand to neurotensin in research applications.
- Length
- 9 amino acids
- Half-life
- Not well characterised
- Mechanism
- This peptide acts as an agonist at neurotensin receptors, binding with a profile similar to neurotensin and eliciting comparable intracellular signaling.
- Studied in
- It is used in pharmacological studies to explore the structure-activity relationships of neurotensin receptor ligands and their effects on smooth muscle and CNS models.
About Kinetensin
Kinetensin is a nonapeptide (Ile-Asn-Leu-Lys-Ala-Leu-Glu-Asn-Tyr) that was initially identified based on its ability to activate neurotensin receptors. Despite having a sequence distinct from neurotensin, it shares a similar pharmacological profile, binding to and activating neurotensin receptors NTS1 and NTS2. This makes it an interesting tool for comparative studies of receptor activation.
In a laboratory context, Kinetensin is used alongside neurotensin and its fragments to dissect the structural requirements for receptor binding and G-protein activation. It has been employed in studies on isolated tissues, such as guinea pig ileum, to measure smooth muscle contraction via NTS1 activation. Its utility lies in being a structurally different but functionally similar probe for the neurotensin system.
Laboratory notes
- Although its sequence is different, it functions as a neurotensin receptor agonist.
- The C-terminal tyrosine residue is important for its biological activity.
- Often used in parallel with neurotensin to confirm that observed effects are mediated by the neurotensin receptor system.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about Kinetensin
Is Kinetensin a fragment of neurotensin?
No, it is a distinct peptide with a different amino acid sequence, but it happens to bind to and activate the same receptors as neurotensin.
What are its primary molecular targets?
It targets the neurotensin receptors, primarily NTS1 and NTS2, functioning as an agonist.
Why is it named 'Kinetensin'?
The name reflects its ability to cause contraction ('kinetic' properties) in certain smooth muscle preparations, an action mediated by neurotensin receptors.
Is Kinetensin for human use?
No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related research peptides
All products are sold for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption, not a medicine, not for diagnosing, treating or preventing any condition.