Abstract
This chapter evaluates the expression of pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) and its receptors in the respiratory system. PACAP mRNA expression is found to be higher in the central nervous system than in the peripheral organs. Within the central nervous system, the highest levels of PACAP mRNA are present in the neurons of hypothalamic nuclei. Apart from influencing pituitary function, PACAP seems to be involved in the central regulation of visceral organs, such as the lung, heart, and intestine. In line with the expression patterns of PACAP and its receptors in the lung, the biological effects of PACAP within this organ fall into four different categories: relaxant effects on airway smooth muscle cells; relaxant activities on pulmonary arteries; effects on airway mucous secretion; and modulation of inflammatory cell activity. The diverse biological roles of PACAP within the lung make it obvious that impaired or dysregulated PACAP signaling may contribute to several pathological situations directly or indirectly affecting this organ
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