Research Only Cognitive & Nootropic

Neurotensin

also known as: NT, NTS

A gut-brain peptide that modulates dopamine transmission, pain sensitivity, and fat absorption — linking metabolic health to schizophrenia and addiction research.

A 13-amino-acid peptide found in the brain and GI tract that modulates dopaminergic neurotransmission, produces non-opioid analgesia, promotes fat absorption, and is a research target for schizophrenia and addiction.

Mechanism of action

Binds NTS1 (high-affinity, Gq-coupled — mediates analgesia and dopamine modulation), NTS2 (mediates analgesia), and NTS3/sortilin. In the VTA, NT enhances dopamine neuron firing. In the gut, promotes fat absorption.

Primary uses

Endogenous modulation of dopaminergic neurotransmission
Non-opioid analgesia research
Fat absorption and GI motility regulation
Schizophrenia research
Cancer targeting (NT-PRRT)

Typical dosing

N/A N/A N/A (endogenous)

Not used therapeutically. Plasma NT rises 2-3-fold after a fat-rich meal.

Regulatory status

Not approved as a drug. NTS1 receptor agonists are in preclinical development for analgesia and antipsychotic effects. NT-PRRT is in clinical trials for neurotensin receptor-positive cancers.

References

[pubmed] Carraway R, Leeman SE. "The isolation of a new hypotensive peptide, neurotensin, from bovine hypothalami." J Biol Chem. 1973;248(19):6854-6861.
[review] Boules M, et al. "Diverse roles of neurotensin agonists in the central nervous system." Front Endocrinol. 2013;4:36.

Related peptides

Neuropeptide Y

The brain's most abundant neuropeptide — a 36-amino-acid master regulator of appetite, stress resilience, and anxiety that connects metabolic and cognitive peptide networks.

Cholecystokinin

The original satiety signal — a gut-brain peptide that tells you to stop eating, stimulates digestion, and modulates anxiety and pain in the CNS.

Substance P

The pain and nausea neuropeptide — an 11-amino-acid tachykinin that transmits pain signals and triggers vomiting, targeted by aprepitant (Emend) and the entire NK1 antagonist drug class.

Beta-Endorphin

The body's most potent endogenous painkiller — the 31-amino-acid opioid peptide behind the 'runner's high' and natural pain modulation.

Disclaimer

This entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosing information reflects published regulatory or research data and is not a recommendation. Many compounds described here are not approved for human use in the United States. Consult a licensed medical professional before considering any peptide therapy.