Therapeutic Effects of Stimulating the Melanocortin Pathway in Regulating Ocular Inflammation and Cell Death

作者：Shudan Wang, Francesca Kahale, Amirreza Naderi, Pier Luigi Surico, Jia Yin, Thomas H. Dohlman, Yihe Chen, Reza Dana · 发表于：Biomolecules · 年份：2024 · DOI：10.3390/biom14020169 · 被引用次数：16 · 研究领域：melanin and skin pigmentation、Ocular Surface and Contact Lens、Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques

Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) and its binding receptors (the melanocortin receptors) play important roles in maintaining ocular tissue integrity and immune homeostasis. Particularly extensive studies have demonstrated the biological functions of α-MSH in both immunoregulation and cyto-protection. This review summarizes the current knowledge of both the physiological and pathological roles of α-MSH and its receptors in the eye. We focus on recent developments in the biology of α-MSH and the relevant clinical implications in treating ocular diseases.