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MC4R Agonist

Meaning

An MC4R agonist is a pharmacological agent designed to selectively activate the Melanocortin 4 Receptor, a G protein-coupled receptor prominently expressed in the hypothalamic region of the brain. Activation of this receptor is a key step in the central nervous system’s pathway for regulating energy balance. Clinically, MC4R agonists are being investigated and used as therapeutic agents for certain forms of genetic obesity, as their action promotes a potent reduction in appetite and an increase in energy expenditure. They function to reset the body’s energy homeostasis set point.