New aspects on the melanocortins and their receptors

Knowledge of melanocortins and their receptors has increased tremendously o ver the last few years. The cloning of five melanocortin receptors, and the discovery of two endogenous antagonists for these receptors, agouti and ag outi-related peptide, have sparked intense interest in the field. Here we g ive a comprehensive review of the pharmacology, physiology and molecular bi ology of the melanocortins and their receptors. In particular, we review th e roles of the melanocortins in the immune system, behaviour, feeding, the cardiovascular system and melanoma. Moreover, evidence is discussed suggest ing that while many of the actions of the melanocortins are mediated via me lanocortin receptors, some appear to be mediated via mechanisms distinct fr om melanocortin receptors. (C) 2000 Academic Press.