Neuropeptide FF

Also known as NPFF

A conserved octapeptide with an RF-amide motif, widely used in research as an anti-opioid modulator that acts on NPFF receptors.

Length: 8 amino acids
Half-life: Not well characterised
Mechanism: It acts as a primary agonist for the G protein-coupled neuropeptide FF receptors (NPFFR1 and NPFFR2), functioning as a modulator of opioid signaling.
Studied in: It is a key tool in pain research for studying its anti-opioid functions, its role in developing opioid tolerance, and its effects on cardiovascular regulation.

About Neuropeptide FF

Neuropeptide FF (NPFF) is an octapeptide with the sequence FLFQPQRF-NH2. It is the archetypal member of the RF-amide peptide family and is processed from the same precursor as Neuropeptide AF. NPFF is widely distributed in the mammalian central nervous system, with high concentrations in the spinal cord dorsal horn and hypothalamus.

This peptide is a high-affinity ligand for the NPFF1 and NPFF2 receptors. Its activation of these receptors is well-established to produce anti-opioid effects in various experimental settings, earning it the label of a key 'anti-opioid' peptide. Researchers use NPFF to probe the mechanisms of pain modulation, study the development of tolerance to opioid analgesics, and investigate its influence on blood pressure and hormone release.

Laboratory notes

The C-terminal RF-amide is critical for activity; peptides lacking this amidation show significantly reduced receptor affinity.
NPFF has a shorter sequence (8 amino acids) compared to its sister peptide, NPAF (18 amino acids).
When using in vitro, ensure cell lines express NPFFR1 or NPFFR2 for relevant functional readouts.

Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.

Questions about Neuropeptide FF

What does 'anti-opioid' mean in the context of NPFF?

In laboratory models, application of NPFF can counteract the analgesic effects of morphine and other opioids, suggesting it acts on a system that opposes opioid-mediated signaling.

Which receptors does NPFF bind to?

NPFF is an endogenous agonist for two G protein-coupled receptors: Neuropeptide FF Receptor 1 (NPFFR1) and Neuropeptide FF Receptor 2 (NPFFR2).

Is NPFF related to FMRF-amide?

Yes, NPFF was initially discovered due to its immunological similarity to the invertebrate peptide FMRF-amide. They share the C-terminal RF-amide motif.

Is Neuropeptide FF for human use?

No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.

Related research peptides

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