Binding of C-terminal segments of neuropeptide Y to chicken brain

The C‐terminal pentapeptide amide segment of neuropeptide Y (NPY) binds specifically to chicken brain membrane preparations. The contribution of each residue of the C‐terminus to this binding has been investigated through the synthesis and evaluation of a series of pentapeptide analogs. The binding of these molecules is strongly dependent on the presence of certain functional groups, in particular the guanidinium group of Arg‐35 and the C‐terminal aromatic amide function. The significance of these results for the binding to chicken brain tissue of NPY, pancreatic polypeptide and other potentially related neuropeptides is discussed.