substance P

noun

: a neuropeptide that consists of 11 amino acid residues, that is present in the nervous system and gastrointestinal tract, that causes the contraction of smooth muscle and dilation of blood vessels, and that acts as a potent neurotransmitter especially in the transmission of signals from pain receptors

Examples of substance P in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

According to the American Migraine Foundation, magnesium decreases substance P and glutamate. —Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 4 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

substance P

noun

: a neuropeptide that consists of 11 amino acid residues, that is widely distributed in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system, and that acts across nerve synapses to produce prolonged postsynaptic excitation