Thyrotropin-releasing hormone: structure, synthesis, receptors, and basic effects

In this review, we summarize the data on the structure, synthesis and receptors of thyrotropinreleasing hormone and its basic physiological effects. In addition to the main effect of this peptide, namely, its regulation of thyrotropin release and influence on several of the functions of the central-nervous system, the peptide influences many physiological functions. On the basis of the literature data and our own results, in this review we emphasize the participation of the peptide in the regulation of microcirculation, particularly, in the regulation of red blood cell functions and the hemostasis system.