A brain octadecaneuropeptide generated by tryptic digestion of DBI (diazepam binding inhibitor) functions as a proconflict ligand of benzodiazepine recognition sites.

An octadecaneuropeptide (ODN) produced by the tryptic digestion of DBI was purified and sequenced and its activity on the Vogel test determined. In vitro ODN displaces 3H-diazepam from specific brain recognition sites and injected intraventricularly in thirsty rats facilitates the onset of behavioral inhibition elicited by punishment. The alpha-amide derivative of ODN is devoid of either action. Evidence is presented suggesting that DBI sequence includes at least two replicas of ODN or one replica of ODN and a fragment with similar if not identical amino acid sequence but identical biological activity.