Neuropeptide ligand for the G-protein coupled receptor aex-2. Activates and regulates the rhythmic calcium influx in DVB GABergic neurons during the defecation motor program, which is a coordinated series of three muscle contractions that occurs every 45 seconds. Secreted by intestinal cells and subsequently endocytosed by coelomocytes. Co-localizes with snt-2 on the cell surface. Expressed in intestinal cells. Defecation defects including a distended intestinal lumen, a strong defect in intestinal content expulsion and reduced anterior body wall contraction.