[Importance and function of the melanocyte-stimulating hormone in malignant melanoma. Importance of MSH]

According to the present state of findings there are melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSH) alpha, beta, gamma and delta with hormone alpha-MSH special physiological importance for man. Our study of special literature shows that the secretion of MSH is affected by exogene factors, different biorhythms and some diseases. Numerous investigation with melanocytes and melanoma cell cultures clearly show the impact of MSH on the function, regulation and the proliferation of pigment cells. The results presented contribute to the discussion of possibilities of improving diagnostics or therapy of malignant melanoma.