Melanin concentrating hormone

Melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) is a cyclic amino acid peptide that has a role in the regulation of skin pigmentation in fish and feeding behavior in mammals. It is produced in the hypothalamus, a region of the brain that controls many bodily functions.

Function

In fish, MCH is released from the pituitary gland and acts on the skin cells to darken the skin color. This is thought to help the fish blend in with their environment and avoid predators. In mammals, MCH is involved in the regulation of feeding behavior. It is released in response to food intake and acts on the brain to increase appetite and decrease energy expenditure.

Structure

MCH is a cyclic peptide, meaning it is made up of amino acids that are linked together in a ring structure. It is composed of 19 amino acids in fish and 17 in mammals. The exact sequence of amino acids varies between species, but all MCH peptides share a common core structure.

Role in disease

Alterations in the MCH system have been implicated in a number of diseases, including obesity, sleep disorders, and depression. In particular, overactivity of the MCH system has been linked to obesity, as it promotes food intake and reduces energy expenditure. Conversely, underactivity of the MCH system has been associated with sleep disorders and depression, as it is involved in the regulation of sleep and mood.

Research

Research into the MCH system is ongoing, with the aim of developing new treatments for obesity, sleep disorders, and depression. Several drugs that target the MCH system are currently in clinical trials.

See also

• Hypothalamus
• Pituitary gland
• Obesity
• Sleep disorders
• Depression