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| Kofi... |
 Posted: Mon Nov 02, 2009 11:30 pm |
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Trends Neurosci. 2008 Jul;31(7):353-60. Epub 2008 Jun 10.
Neuroprotective actions of melanocortins: a therapeutic opportunity.
Catania A.
Center for Preclinical Investigation, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore
Policlinico, Mangiagalli e Regina Elena, 20122 Milano, Italy.
Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) and other melanocortins
make up a family of endogenous peptides derived from
pro-opiomelanocortin. Through binding to five melanocortin receptors
(MCR), these peptides exert multiple influences on the host, including
anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The wide distribution of
at least three melanocortin receptor subtypes (MC1R, MC3R and MC4R) in
neural, glial and endothelial cells suggests that these receptors could
be pharmacological targets for neuroprotective therapies. As a
consequence of modulation of NF-kappaB-mediated transcription,
melanocortins reduce production of pro-inflammatory agents in brain
cells after injury. During brain ischemia, alpha-MSH and other
melanocortins exert protective influences with a broad time window.
Further, melanocortins rescue neurons subjected to excitotoxic insults,
accelerate neurophysiological recovery after spinal cord injury and
increase regenerative capacity of peripheral nerves in postlesion
repair. Based on their established actions, melanocortins could form a
novel class of therapeutic agents for acute and chronic disorders of the
nervous system
Publication Types:
* Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
* Review
PMID: 18550183 |
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