Role of gamma-MSH peptides in the regulation of adrenal steroidogenesis.
Alpha-, beta- and gamma-melanocyte stimulating hormones (MSHs) are peptides derived from the ACTH precursor, pro-opiomelanocortin. All three peptides have been highly conserved throughout evolution but their exact biological function in mammals is still largely obscure. In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in alpha-MSH and its role in the regulation of feeding. Gamma-MSH by contrast has been shown to be involved in the regulation of adrenal steroidogenesis and also has effects on the cardiovascular and renal systems. This review will provide an overview of the role that gamma-MSH peptides play in the regulation of adrenal steroidogenesis.
School of Animal and Microbial Sciences, The University of Reading, Whiteknights, P.O. Box 228, Reading, Berkshire RG6 6AJ, UK.
Stephen C
SC
Harmer
Andrew B
AB
Bicknell
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000096:biosynthesis* / Q000737:chemistry; D000311:Adrenal Glands / Q000737:chemistry / Q000201:enzymology / Q000378:metabolism*; D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D010455:Peptides / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology*; D011499:Protein Processing, Post-Translational / Q000502:physiology; D002787:Sterol Esterase / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D019825:gamma-MSH / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology*
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D010455:Peptides; D019825:gamma-MSH; D002787:Sterol Esterase