Role of neuropeptide Y and its receptors in the progression of endocrine-related cancer

The neuropeptide Y (NPY) family of peptides, in addition to its many physiological actions, has also been involved in the modulation of tumor progression, with specific reference to endocrine-related cancers such as neuroendocrine tumors, breast and prostate cancers. These have been found either to express NPY receptors, or to secrete NPY-related peptides, or both. The study of the role of the NPY family of peptides in the biology of endocrine-related tumors, specifically concerning cell proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion and metastatization, may help to clarify some aspects of tumor pathophysiology, as well as to indicate novel diagnostic markers and therapeutical approaches.