proopiomelanocortin

biochemistry

Also known as: POMC

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) is a protein that serves as a precursor for several biologically active peptides, primarily secreted by the pituitary gland. These peptides include melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).12

MSH peptides, such as alpha-MSH, beta-MSH, and gamma-MSH, are involved in skin darkening by increasing melanin pigment concentrations in melanocytes. In humans, this process is stimulated by sunlight. MSH peptides also play a role in regulating feeding and energy expenditure, with MSH known to suppress appetite in mammals.1

ACTH regulates the outer region of the adrenal glands and stimulates the secretion of glucocorticoid hormones like cortisol. It also contributes to increased skin pigmentation. Other peptides derived from POMC include beta-lipotropin, which releases fatty acids from adipose tissue, and beta-endorphin, which suppresses pain.2

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adrenocorticotropic hormone
…larger glycoprotein prohormone molecule called proopiomelanocortin (POMC). POMC is synthesized by the corticotrophs of the anterior pituitary, which constitute about 10 percent of the gland. The molecule is split into several biologically active polypeptides when the secretory granules are discharged from the corticotrophs. Among these polypeptides is ACTH, whose major…
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…larger glycoprotein prohormone molecule called proopiomelanocortin (POMC). POMC is synthesized by the corticotrophs of the anterior pituitary, which constitute about 10 percent of the gland. The molecule is split into several biologically active polypeptides when the secretory granules are discharged from the corticotrophs. Among these polypeptides is ACTH, whose major…
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melanocyte-stimulating hormone
…from a protein known as proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and secreted primarily by the pituitary gland. In most vertebrates, melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) peptides are secreted specifically by the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland and function primarily in skin darkening, with an array of other, minor activities.
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…from a protein known as proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and secreted primarily by the pituitary gland. In most vertebrates, melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) peptides are secreted specifically by the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland and function primarily in skin darkening, with an array of other, minor activities.
Read More