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Melanocortin Receptor Modulation

Meaning

Melanocortin Receptor Modulation describes the pharmacological or endogenous regulation of the activity of the five distinct melanocortin receptors (MC1R to MC5R), which are G-protein coupled receptors found throughout the body and central nervous system. These receptors are targets for various peptide hormones, including alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (α-MSH) and ACTH, and play a critical role in regulating diverse physiological processes. In the domain of hormonal health, modulation of MC receptors, particularly MC4R in the hypothalamus, is central to controlling energy homeostasis, appetite, sexual function, and the inflammatory response.