Background of the antigen
The galanin family of proteins are key members for inflammatory processes and cell proliferation, and may function as potential biomarkers for colon cancer. Produced in both neuronal and nonneuronal cells in the skin, members of the galanin family include galanin, galanin-message associated peptide, galanin-like peptide and alarin. GALP, also known as galanin-like peptide, is a 116 amino acid secreted protein belonging to the galanin family. Mainly produced in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARC) and the posterior pituitary, GALP is thought to function in CNS homeostatic processes, including the regulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion. GALP binds to the G-protein coupled galanin receptors, including GALR1, GALR2 and GALR3, and may also play a role in energy metabolism, with significant implications towards obesity. GALP exits as two alternatively spliced isoforms.
