Melanocortin Receptor Antagonists Small Molecules and Peptides

Melanocortin receptors are activated by members of the melanocortin family: α-, β- and γ-melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Endogenous antagonists include agouti and agouti-related protein (AgRP). The melanocortin receptors are G-protein-coupled and 5 subtypes exist, MC_1-5. The melanocortins are involved in a wide range of physiological functions, including pigmentation, energy homeostasis, inflammation, immunomodulation, steroidogenesis and temperature control.