Peptide YY
36-amino acid gut hormone released postprandially that suppresses appetite and slows gastric emptying through Y2 receptor signaling.
Chemical Identity
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C186H286N54O55 |
| Molecular Weight | 4231 Da |
| CAS Number | 117839-69-7 |
| Peptide Class | Gut Hormone (36 amino acids) |
| Sequence | YPSKPDNPGEDAPAEDMARYYSALRHYINLITRQRY-NH2 |
Structure
Peptide YY (PYY) is a 36-amino acid peptide hormone belonging to the pancreatic polypeptide family. It is released from L-cells in the ileum and colon. PYY(1-36) is cleaved by DPP-4 to PYY(3-36), the primary circulating form that acts on Y2 receptors.
Mechanism of Action
PYY(3-36) binds Y2 receptors on vagal afferent neurons and hypothalamic NPY/AgRP neurons, inhibiting NPY release and suppressing appetite. It slows gastric emptying (ileal brake), reduces intestinal motility, and decreases pancreatic secretion. PYY contributes to the satiety effect of bariatric surgery.
Clinical Applications
- Appetite regulation: Postprandial satiety signal
- Obesity: Reduced PYY secretion in obesity
- Bariatric surgery: Enhanced PYY release contributes to weight loss
- Type 2 diabetes: Potential therapeutic target
- PYY(3-36): Investigational anti-obesity agent
Pharmacology
- Half-life: 8-12 minutes (PYY(1-36)), 20-30 minutes (PYY(3-36))
- Release: Proportional to meal caloric content
- Peak: 1-2 hours postprandial
- DPP-4: Converts PYY(1-36) to active PYY(3-36)
- Source: L-cells (ileum, colon)
References
- Batterham, R.L., et al. (2003). PYY(3-36) reduces appetite and food intake in humans. Nature, 418, 650-654.
- le Roux, C.W., et al. (2006). Gut hormone profiles after bariatric surgery. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 91, 1789-1796.
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