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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
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According to the American Migraine Foundation, magnesium decreases substance P and glutamate.
—Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 4 Apr. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1934, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near substance P
Cite this Entry
“Substance P.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/substance%20P. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.
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
More from Merriam-Webster on substance P
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about substance P
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