POMC cell function

... The Prohormone 'Proopiomelanocortin' (POMC) is involved in several important cell functions. Critically review this statement in terms of its involvement in human pigmentation. A dissertation presented by Rekha Balakrishnan For the BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Sciences In the University of Bradford Division of Biomedical Sciences School of Life Sciences University of Bradford Bradford DATE of SUBMISSION 3rd April 2009 WORD COUNT 4788 TABLE OF CONTENTS Abstract 3 Introduction 4 Cell Functions of POMC 8 POMC Derived Peptides 12 The Importance of POMC- derived Peptide............................................... 15 POMC and Pigmentation 17 POMC and Pathology 20 Conclusion 22 Bibliography 25 Abstract This work reviews several important cellular-based functions of proopiomelanocortin (POMC), with emphasis on human skin pigmentation. As melanocortin peptides, PMOC regulates several physiological functions, including skin pigmentation, adrenal and cardiovascular functions, inflammation, energy homeostasis, and exocrine secretion. It also produces an array of biologically active peptides, by means of an extensive, tissue-specific posttranslational process. The skin is a target organ for the actions of POMC and its derived neuropeptides, including ?-melanocyte stimulating hormone (?-MCH), ß-endorphin, and ACTH. This study also surveys diseases associated

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