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Melanocortin Receptor Agonist

Meaning

A melanocortin receptor agonist is a pharmacological compound that selectively binds to and activates one or more of the five subtypes of melanocortin receptors (MC1R-MC5R), which are G protein-coupled receptors expressed throughout the body. This class of agents targets the crucial melanocortin system, which regulates a wide array of physiological functions including skin pigmentation, central energy homeostasis, sexual arousal, and immune response modulation. The specific therapeutic application is determined by the receptor subtype targeted, such as stimulating MC4R to influence appetite and energy balance.