Melanocortin receptor 4; Receptor specific to the heptapeptide core common to adrenocorticotropic hormone and alpha-, beta-, and gamma-MSH. Plays a central role in energy homeostasis and somatic growth. This receptor is mediated by G proteins that stimulate adenylate cyclase (cAMP).

Melanocortin receptor 3; Receptor for MSH (alpha, beta and gamma) and ACTH. This receptor is mediated by G proteins which activate adenylate cyclase. Required for expression of anticipatory patterns of activity and wakefulness during periods of limited nutrient availability and for the normal regulation of circadian clock activity in the brain.

Melanocyte-stimulating hormone receptor; Receptor for MSH (alpha, beta and gamma) and ACTH. The activity of this receptor is mediated by G proteins which activate adenylate cyclase; Belongs to the G-protein coupled receptor 1 family.

Mu-type opioid receptor; Receptor for endogenous opioids such as beta-endorphin and endomorphin. Receptor for natural and synthetic opioids including morphine, heroin, DAMGO, fentanyl, etorphine, buprenorphin and methadone. Agonist binding to the receptor induces coupling to an inactive GDP-bound heterotrimeric G-protein complex and subsequent exchange of GDP for GTP in the G-protein alpha subunit leading to dissociation of the G-protein complex with the free GTP-bound G-protein alpha and the G-protein beta-gamma dimer activating downstream cellular effectors. The agonist- and cell typ [...]

Melanocortin receptor 5; Receptor for MSH (alpha, beta and gamma) and ACTH. The activity of this receptor is mediated by G proteins which activate adenylate cyclase. This receptor is a possible mediator of the immunomodulation properties of melanocortins.

Corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 1; G-protein coupled receptor for CRH (corticotropin-releasing factor) and UCN (urocortin). Has high affinity for CRH and UCN. Ligand binding causes a conformation change that triggers signaling via guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) and down-stream effectors, such as adenylate cyclase. Promotes the activation of adenylate cyclase, leading to increased intracellular cAMP levels. Inhibits the activity of the calcium channel CACNA1H. Required for normal embryonic development of the adrenal gland and for normal hormonal responses to st [...]

Melanocortin-2 receptor accessory protein; Modulator of melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC2R, MC3R, MC4R and MC5R). Acts by increasing ligand-sensitivity of melanocortin receptors and enhancing generation of cAMP by the receptors. Required both for MC2R trafficking to the cell surface of adrenal cells and for signaling in response to corticotropin (ACTH). May be involved in the intracellular trafficking pathways in adipocyte cells (By similarity). Belongs to the MRAP family.

Alpha-neoendorphin; Leu-enkephalins compete with and mimic the effects of opiate drugs. They play a role in a number of physiologic functions, including pain perception and responses to stress (By similarity). Leumorphin has a typical opiod activity and may have anti- apoptotic effect.