alpha-MSH is a neuropeptide originally isolated from the pituitary gland. alpha-MSH is produced by post-translational processing of a precursor protein, proopiomelanocortin (POMC). In most vertebrates but not in mammals, alpha-MSH is produced in the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland. The biological activities of alpha-MSH are mediated through a family of five specific G-protein coupled receptors: MCR1, MCR2, MCR3, MCR4, and MCR5. alpha-MSH is an evolutionarily highly conserved peptide action that induces pigment dispersion in skin melanocytes of amphibians, reptiles and mammals by stimulating melanin production. However, in human and other mammals, alpha-MSH acts in the brain in appetite suppression and sexual arousal. Some cases of extreme obesity have been traced to mutated alpha-MSH receptor in the brain. Presumably, these people are unable to respond to the appetite-suppressing effect of alpha-MSH. alpha-MSH has significant anti-inflammatory properties, mediated through its binding to MCR1 and includes regulation of expression and secretion of chemokines, downregulation of proinflammatory signal-induced NF-kB activation and adhesion molecule expression, prostaglandin E2 synthesis, as well as induction of interleukin-10.
GPCR ligands are now part of our growing portfolio of GPCR related products, which also includes antibodies.
Alomone Labs is pleased to offer alpha-MSH (#GPM-100), a biologically active synthetic peptide in convenient sizes and at attractive prices.
G-Protein Coupled Receptor Ligands; Melanocortin Receptor Ligands