Cholecystokinin: From Gallbladder to Cognition and Beyond

Cholecystokinin: From Gallbladder to Cognition and Beyond covers the biology, physiology, and pathophysiological roles of cholecystokinin (CCK) peptides. The book begins with a historical overview before providing in-depth chapters on the biology of CCK, from biogenesis to cell expression, including intestinal and extraintestinal endocrine cells, the central and peripheral nervous system, and receptor function. CCK phylogenesis is explored across various species, including fish, birds, insects and amphibians. The physiology of CCK covers intestinal CCK secretion, the gallbladder and pancreas, and the role of CCK in the gut-brain axis, gastrointestinal motor function, appetite regulation, and cardiovascular function. Methods used for CCK research are also discussed. A number of chapters then covers the roles of CCK in various diseases, including metabolic diseases, tumors, psychiatric illness, the immune system and nociception, as well as potential therapeutic approaches targeting CCK receptors.