Tachykinins
Tachykinins are a family of neuropeptides that play a significant role in the nervous system. The name "tachykinin" comes from the Greek words "tachys" meaning fast and "kinein" meaning to move, reflecting their rapid action on smooth muscle. The most well-known tachykinin is Substance P, but the family also includes neurokinin A, neurokinin B, and others depending on the species.
These peptides are found in both the central and peripheral nervous systems of vertebrates and invertebrates.
The functions of tachykinins are diverse and involve a wide range of physiological processes. In the periphery,