Title

 

Authors

A. Catania, C. Lonati, A. Sordi, A. Carlin, P. Leonardi, and S. Gatti

Center for Preclinical Investigation and Center for Surgical Research, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy

 

Abstract

Melanocortin peptides, the collective term for α-, β-, γ- melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-, β‑, γ-MSH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), are elements of an ancient modulatory system.  Natural melanocortins derive from the common precursor pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC). Five receptor subtypes for melanocortins (MC1R-MC5R) are widely distributed in brain regions and in peripheral cells.  Melanocortin receptor activation by natural or synthetic ligands exerts marked anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.  The anti-cytokine action and the inhibitory influences on inflammatory cell migration make melanocortins potential new drugs for treatment of inflammatory disorders.  Effectiveness in treatment of acute, chronic, and systemic inflammatory disorders is well documented in preclinical studies.  Further, melanocortins are promising compounds in neuroprotection.  We will show the main signaling circuits in anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory actions of melanocortins and the potential therapeutic use of these molecules.