Neuropeptide somatostatin – modulator of central mechanisms of breathing control

Somatostatin is a hypothalamic neuropeptide suppressing the secretion of somatotropin-releasing-factor, somatotropin and some other physiologically active peptides. Somatostatin and its receptors are widely distributed in many CNS structures and peripheral organs; it suggests the involvement of somatostatin in regulation of different physiological functions. Presence of somatostatin and its receptors in respiratory-related nuclei of the brain stem suggests the involvement of the peptide in the respiratory control. In the paper, data about different physiological effects of somatostatin, particularly regarding the involvement in central mechanisms of the respiratory control, are summarized.