Proopiomelanocortin
Proopiomelanocortin (Pronunciation: pro-opio-melanocortin, Etymology: Greek pro- "before", opio- "poppy", melan- "black", cortin "cortex") is a polypeptide hormone precursor that has many effects in the body. It is encoded by the POMC gene.
Overview
Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) is a precursor molecule that is cleaved into multiple hormone peptides, each with distinct physiological functions. These peptides include adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), and beta-endorphin.
Function
The POMC molecule is synthesized in the pituitary gland, where it is cleaved into its component peptides. These peptides then exert their effects on various parts of the body. For example, ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a hormone that helps the body respond to stress. MSH stimulates the production of melanin, a pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. Beta-endorphin is a natural painkiller.
Clinical significance
Mutations in the POMC gene can lead to a variety of medical conditions. For example, overproduction of ACTH can lead to Cushing's syndrome, a condition characterized by high levels of cortisol in the body. On the other hand, underproduction of ACTH can lead to Addison's disease, a condition characterized by low levels of cortisol. Mutations that affect the production of MSH can lead to albinism, a condition characterized by a lack of pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes.
See also
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone
- Melanocyte-stimulating hormone
- Beta-endorphin
- Cushing's syndrome
- Addison's disease
- Albinism
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Proopiomelanocortin
- Wikipedia's article - Proopiomelanocortin
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