The neuropeptide alpha-MSH in host defense.
The presence of the ancient peptide alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) in barrier organs such as gut and skin suggests that this potent anti-inflammatory molecule may be a component of the innate host defense. In tests of antimicrobial activities, alpha-MSH and its fragment KPV showed inhibitory influences against the gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus and the yeast Candida albicans. Anti-tumor necrosis factor and antimicrobial effects of alpha-MSH suggest that the peptide might likewise reduce replication of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Treatment with alpha-MSH reduced HIV replication in chronically and acutely infected human monocytes. At the molecular level, alpha-MSH inhibited activation of the transcription factor NF-kappa B known to enhance HIV expression. alpha-MSH that combines antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects could be useful in the treatment of disorders in which infection and inflammation coexist.
Catania
A
A
Division of Internal Medicine, Ospedale Maggiore di Milano IRCCS, Via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milano, Italy. Anna.Catania@unimi.it
Cutuli
M
M
Garofalo
L
L
Carlin
A
A
Airaghi
L
L
Barcellini
W
W
Lipton
J M
JM
D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D007113:Immunity, Innate; D000521:alpha-MSH / Q000276:immunology*
D000521:alpha-MSH