Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 28, 2026
12:37
Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
Brain effects of melanocortins
Alfio Bertolini1, Raffaella Tacchi, Anna Valeria Vergoni
1Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Diagnostic Services, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico of Modena, Modena, Italy. bertolini.alfio@unimore.it
Pharmacological Research
|November 11, 2008
Summary
Melanocortins, peptides derived from POMC, exhibit diverse extra-hormonal effects. Research into their brain-level actions reveals potential for novel therapeutics across numerous conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Neuropeptide Research
Background:
- Melanocortins (MSHs, ACTH) are POMC-derived peptides with a shared His-Phe-Arg-Trp sequence.
- Initial discoveries highlighted their profound effects on brain functions and behavior, coining the term 'neuropeptide'.
- Decades of research have uncovered their critical roles in physiological functions and therapeutic potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the history and pharmacology of melanocortin extra-hormonal effects.
- To outline the therapeutic applications of melanocortins acting at the brain level.
- To explore emerging therapeutic possibilities, such as in neurodegenerative diseases.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of melanocortin research.
- Pharmacological analysis of extra-hormonal effects.
- Synthesis and characterization of selective melanocortin receptor ligands.
Main Results:
- Melanocortins induce complex behavioral syndromes and play key roles in fundamental physiological processes.
- Planned research elucidated their involvement in feeding, shock, and opiate systems.
- Discovery of melanocortin receptors and selective ligands enables innovative drug development.
Conclusions:
- Melanocortins offer a promising source for novel drugs targeting a wide array of conditions.
- Therapeutic applications span from metabolic and cardiovascular diseases to pain and inflammatory disorders.
- Emerging evidence suggests significant potential for melanocortins in treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Pigmentation
The color of the skin is influenced by a number of pigments, including melanin, carotene, and hemoglobin. Recall that melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes, which are found scattered throughout the stratum basale of the epidermis. The melanin is transferred to the keratinocytes via melanosomes.
Melanin occurs in two primary forms: eumelanin that provides black and brown pigment and pheomelanin that provides red color. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin than those with pale...
Melanin occurs in two primary forms: eumelanin that provides black and brown pigment and pheomelanin that provides red color. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin than those with pale...
01:14Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
The first thing a clinician sees is the skin, so the examination of the skin should be part of any thorough physical examination. Most skin disorders are relatively benign, but a few, including melanomas, can be fatal if untreated. A couple of the more noticeable disorders, albinism and vitiligo, affect the appearance of the skin and its accessory organs.
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
01:37Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis
The response to stress—be it physical or psychological, acute or chronic—involves activation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis is part of the neuroendocrine system because it involves both neuronal and hormonal communication. Its function is to regulate homeostatic systems—metabolic, cardiovascular, and immune—providing the necessary means to respond to a stressor.
01:27Major Hormones and Their Functions
Hormones, the biochemical messengers produced by endocrine glands, are pivotal in regulating bodily functions and maintaining homeostasis. Each hormone's balance is crucial; imbalances can lead to significant physiological disruptions. Major hormones include oxytocin, cortisol, epinephrine, estrogen, testosterone, thyroxine, growth hormone, insulin, and glucagon.
Oxytocin, produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, plays a role in social bonding, childbirth, and lactation.
Oxytocin, produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, plays a role in social bonding, childbirth, and lactation.
01:27Sympathetic Pathways: Collateral Ganglia and Adrenal Medulla
The sympathetic pathways of the collateral ganglia and adrenal medulla serve unique but interconnected roles in the sympathetic response.
Collateral Ganglia
Sympathetic preganglionic axons reach the collateral ganglia along the route of splanchnic nerves. These nerves bypass the sympathetic trunk and communicate with sympathetic postganglionic neurons housed in the prevertebral ganglia. These ganglia supply the organs of the abdominopelvic cavity.
The greater splanchnic nerve, formed by the...
Collateral Ganglia
Sympathetic preganglionic axons reach the collateral ganglia along the route of splanchnic nerves. These nerves bypass the sympathetic trunk and communicate with sympathetic postganglionic neurons housed in the prevertebral ganglia. These ganglia supply the organs of the abdominopelvic cavity.
The greater splanchnic nerve, formed by the...
01:19Cushing Syndrome II: Pathophysiology
Cortisol production is normally governed by the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, which maintains hormonal balance through tightly regulated feedback mechanisms. Disruption of this regulatory system is central to the development of Cushing syndrome, whether the excess cortisol originates from external medications or internal pathology. Persistent cortisol elevation alters metabolism, immune function, and endocrine signaling, producing the characteristic clinical features of the...