Melanocortin 3 receptor
Mammalian protein found in humans
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Melanocortin 3 receptor (MC3R) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the MC3R gene.[5][6]
Function
This gene encodes MC3R, a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) for melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) that is expressed in the brain.
Early research suggests that humans who carry loss-of-function mutations in MC3R may have a somewhat later onset of puberty (roughly 5 months later for heterozygous girls). This along with evidence from animal models has led some researchers to propose that MC3R may have a role in regulating the timing of sexual maturity.[7]
Research
Studies performed by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), found that two specific polymorphisms in the MC3R gene may be associated with pediatric obesity and greater body mass because of greater energy intake. Children who were homozygous for C17A + G241A consumed approximately 38% more than those who did not contain aforementioned polymorphisms. The study concluded that these genetic variants did not affect energy expenditure.[8]
Ligands
- Ac-Val-Gln-(pI)DPhe-DTic-NH2, first MC3 selective agonist, 100x selectivity over MC4.[9]
- Ac-Val-Gln-DBip-DTic-NH2, 140x selectivity over MC4.[10]
- Pyrrolidine bis-cyclic guanidines, non-peptide small molecule MC3 agonists, good selectivity over MC4 but not over MC1 or MC5.[11]
- SHU-9119, mixed MC3/MC4 antagonist.[12]
