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Updated: Jul 2, 2025
Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
Therapeutic Effects of Stimulating the Melanocortin Pathway in Regulating Ocular Inflammation and Cell Death
Shudan Wang1,2, Francesca Kahale1, Amirreza Naderi1
1Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Abstract:
Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) and its binding receptors (the melanocortin receptors) play important roles in maintaining ocular tissue integrity and immune homeostasis. Particularly extensive studies have demonstrated the biological functions of α-MSH in both immunoregulation and cyto-protection. This review summarizes the current knowledge of both the physiological and pathological roles of α-MSH and its receptors in the eye. We focus on recent developments in the biology of α-MSH and the relevant clinical implications in treating ocular diseases.
