Nerve cells (neurons) in the brain use small molecules called neuropeptides to converse with each other. Disruption of this communication can lead to problems with learning, memory and other brain functions. Through genetic studies in a model organism, the tiny worm C. elegans, a team led by Kenneth Miller of the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation has uncovered a previously unknown mechanism that nerve cells use to package, move and release neuropeptides. The researchers found that a protein called CaM kinase II, which plays many roles in the brain, helps control this mechanism. Neuropeptides in worms lacking CaM kinase II spilled out from their packages before they reached their proper destinations. A more thorough understanding of how neurons work, provided by studies like this, may help researchers better target drugs to treat memory disorders and other neurological problems in humans.
This work also was funded by NIH’s National Institute of Mental Health.
Learn more:
Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation News Release 
what is the difference between neuropeptide and neurotransmitter?
A neuropeptide is just one type of neurotransmitter, made up of several amino acids linked together. Not all neurotransmitters are neuropeptides. Some neurotransmitters—including important ones like dopamine and serotonin—are composed of other types of molecules.