Structural similarities among gastrointestinal hormones and related active peptides.

The amino acid sequences of gastrointestinal hormones were compared in fragments of variable spans. Similarities within each of three peptide groups are extensive, but non-unique alignments were also noticed in the glucagon group. Use of different spans demonstrated that structural similarities are unevenly distributed in the gastrin family. Correct phasing was detected even for proteins with few identities and multi-shifted alignments (alcohol dehydrogenases). Tests for alignments among different groups of peptides revealed similarities between bombesin and glucagon or secretin, as well as between caerulein and litorin. Recently determined extended structures suggested the presence of a few deletions/insertions close to the middle of the molecules (two such positions missing in the gastrin-releasing peptide in relation to glucagon). The alignments appear to structurally link large groups of peptide hormones and active peptides. Similarities concentrate in the C-terminal parts, and gaps in the middle. These facts are consistent with known correlations with bioactivities. They also suggest the possibility of evolutionary connections among different peptides as well as corresponding relationships among their receptors.