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Melanocortin-3 Receptor

Meaning

The Melanocortin-3 Receptor (MC3R) is a G protein-coupled receptor primarily expressed in the hypothalamus, limbic system, and peripheral tissues, including the gastrointestinal tract and adipose tissue. This receptor is a crucial component of the central melanocortin system, which plays a distinct and important role in regulating energy homeostasis, body composition, and sexual function. Unlike the MC4R, which primarily governs acute food intake, MC3R is thought to be more involved in the long-term partitioning of energy, influencing fat mass accumulation and lean body mass. Its modulation is a target for treating metabolic disorders.