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MC1R to MC5R: Five Melanocortin Receptors and What Researchers Link to Each
This article describes published laboratory science for educational purposes. It makes no claims about use in people.
The melanocortin system has five known receptors, MC1R through MC5R. Each sits on different tissues and is studied for different roles.
| Receptor | Main research association |
|---|---|
| MC1R | Pigment cells and pigmentation |
| MC2R | Adrenal gland, responds to ACTH only |
| MC3R | Energy balance in the brain |
| MC4R | Energy balance and appetite circuits |
| MC5R | Exocrine glands |
Selectivity
Melanotan-1 10mg is reported to be relatively selective for MC1R, while Melanotan-2 10mg is non-selective, binding MC1R, MC3R, MC4R and MC5R. That difference explains why the two compounds behave so differently in experiments.
The message sequence
All melanocortin peptides share a core of His-Phe-Arg-Trp. Surrounding residues tune which receptor they favor.
Take-home
- Five receptors, five different contexts.
- Selectivity is a design choice, not an accident.
Keep reading for how selectivity is proven.
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For laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary use, and not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition. This article is educational and is not medical advice.