nounIntermediate
Definition
14-amino-acid peptide originally isolated from European fire-bellied toad (Bombina bombina) skin; its mammalian analog GRP (gastrin-releasing peptide) regulates gut function and is overexpressed in several cancers.

Detailed Explanation

Bombesin-like peptides bind BB1, BB2, and BB3 receptors. GRP (the mammalian equivalent binding BB2) stimulates gastric acid and pancreatic enzyme secretion. Because BB2 receptors are highly expressed on prostate, breast, and small cell lung cancers, radiolabeled bombesin analogs are being developed for cancer imaging (PET/SPECT) and targeted radiotherapy.

Key Facts

  • Bombesin-like peptides bind BB1, BB2, and BB3 receptors
  • GRP (the mammalian equivalent binding BB2) stimulates gastric acid and pancreatic enzyme secretion
  • Because BB2 receptors are highly expressed on prostate, breast, and small cell lung cancers, radiolabeled bombesin analogs are being developed for cancer imaging (PET/SPECT) and targeted radiotherapy
Related Terms Gastrin Receptor Neuropeptide

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