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

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of substance P was in 1934

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 28 Mar. 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

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