The PPY gene encodes an unusually short protein precursor of 95 amino acids in length.

Its secretion in humans is increased after a protein meal, fasting, exercise, and acute hypoglycaemia, and is decreased by somatostatin and intravenous glucose.

Plasma pancreatic polypeptide has been shown to be reduced in conditions associated with increased food intake and elevated in anorexia nervosa.

In addition, peripheral administration of polypeptide has been shown to decrease food intake in rodents.

The excitation of the vagus nerve, the administration of gastrin, secretin or cholecystokinin induce PP secretion.