Melanin concentrating hormone

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Melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) is a cyclic orexinogenic hypothalamic peptide originally isolated from the pituatary gland of teleost fish where it controls skin pigmentation. In mammals it is involved in the regulation of feeding behavior and energy balance. When administered artificially, it increases food intake. It also seems to activate the stress axis. Two receptors have recently been characterized: MCH-R1 and MCH-R2 these two receptors share approximately 38% homology. MCH-R1 is expressed in all mammals whilst MCH-R2 is only found in some primates and carnivores including dogs, ferrets and man.

Antagonists might be useful in the treatment of obesity and anxiety and deppression. An agonist might have possible utility as a treatment for osteophorosis.

Research is ongoing for antagonists affecting MCH receptors R1 and R2.