α-MSH
endogenous
What it isPOMC-derived peptide agonist at the melanocortin receptors; endogenous, not a drug.
Why this oneOne ligand explains three of the library's melanocortin pegs: MC1R on melanocytes switches pigment toward eumelanin, while MC3R and MC4R in the hypothalamus carry energy balance — which is why MC4R agonists treat obesity and MC1R agonists tan skin.
What limits itIt is not ACTH's receptor: MC2R belongs to corticotropin. Afamelanotide and bremelanotide are the synthetic analogues.
NO BOXED WARNINGS