Neuropeptides and Lung Development

It has been recognized for over 50 years that lung tumors can elaborate hormonal substances, including catecholamines and multiple bioactive peptides (1). Often referred to as “ectopic hormones,” these substances may infrequently give rise to secondary paraneoplastic syndromes such as Cushing’s syndrome due to production of bombesin-like peptide (BLP) or adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by small cell carcinomas of the lung (SCLCs) or pulmonary carcinoid tumors (2,3). However, many of the same substances have been identified in normal or nonneoplastic lung, with highest levels often being observed during fetal gestation.

Duke Scholars

Author Mary Elizabeth Anne Sunday Pathology