This gene encodes the precursor of a peptide hormone that shares sequence similarity with the parathyroid hormone. This gene is expressed in various regions of the brain where it plays a role in the release of pituitary hormones, anxiety and nociception. The encoded precursor protein is proteolytically processed to generate the biologically active neuropeptide. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2015] see less This gene encodes the precursor of a peptide hormone that shares sequence similarity with the parathyroid hormone. This gene is expressed in various regions of the brain where it plays a role in the release of pituitary hormones, anxiety and nociception. The encoded precursor protein is proteolytically processed to generate the biologically active neuropeptide. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2015]