01 /What it is
PACAP (Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide) is a 38 amino acid neuropeptide of the secretin glucagon family. It is studied as a research compound at three receptors (PAC1, VPAC1, VPAC2) and is one of the most widely investigated neuropeptides in central nervous system signaling research.
02 /How it works
In research models, PACAP binds the PAC1 receptor at high selectivity and the VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors at lower selectivity, then signals through adenylate cyclase to raise intracellular cyclic AMP. Researchers study this signaling in cortical neurons and across stress response circuitry.
03 /What researchers explore it for
Researchers have explored PACAP in synaptic plasticity research, in stress response research, and in neuroprotection research.
04 /Safety and interactions
PACAP is for laboratory research use only and is not for human consumption. Not medical advice. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
05 /Research notes
Peptide family: secretin glucagon family neuropeptides. Frequently compared with VIP, which shares the VPAC receptor subset. The Apothify library lists PACAP for encyclopedia coverage only.
Related peptides
VIP · Cerebrolysin · NAP
