Alarin, APAHRSSTFPKWVTKTERGRQPLRS, is derived from a splice variant of galanin-like peptide (GALP) RNA. It shows potent and dose-dependent vasoconstrictor and anti-edema activity in the cutaneous microvasculature, as was also observed with other members of the galanin peptide family. Since alarin only shares five amino acids with GALP it is unlikely that the peptide can activate GALP-specific receptors. The neuropeptide has been reported to be expressed in ganglionic cells of human neuroblastic tumors and might therefore represent a potential tumor marker.