Definition of PYY Peptide YY

PYY Peptide YY, also known as Peptide Tyrosine Tyrosine, is a peptide hormone that is primarily found in the gastrointestinal tract. It is secreted by special cells in the ileum and colon, in response to the presence of food in the digestive system.

Functions of PYY Peptide YY

1. Appetite Regulation: PYY acts as a satiety hormone, which means it helps to suppress appetite and reduce food intake. It sends signals to the brain, specifically the hypothalamus, to induce feelings of fullness and reduce hunger. This helps in maintaining a healthy body weight.

2. Energy Homeostasis: PYY plays a role in regulating energy balance by influencing food intake and energy expenditure. It helps in controlling the release of other gut hormones involved in appetite regulation, such as ghrelin and leptin.

3. Gastrointestinal Motility: PYY slows down the movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for better absorption of nutrients. It helps in the process of digestion and prevents rapid gastric emptying.

Medical Implications of PYY Peptide YY

Due to its involvement in appetite regulation and energy balance, PYY has gained attention in potential therapeutic applications for obesity and eating disorders. Modulating PYY levels or its receptors may provide avenues for developing novel treatments to control appetite and manage weight.

Furthermore, PYY levels have been examined in various gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Altered PYY levels have been associated with changes in gut motility and symptoms related to the gut-brain axis.