Recombinant Human Melanocyte-stimulating hormone receptor (MC1R)-VLPs

Uniprot Id

Q01726

Target Species

Human

Target Name

MC1R

Target Full Name

Melanocyte-stimulating hormone receptor

Target Function

Receptor for MSH (alpha, beta and gamma) and ACTH. The activity of this receptor is mediated by G proteins which activate adenylate cyclase. Mediates melanogenesis, the production of eumelanin (black/brown) and phaeomelanin (red/yellow), via regulation of cAMP signaling in melanocytes.

Target Involvement

Melanoma, cutaneous malignant 5 (CMM5)

Target Subcellular Location

Cell membrane; Multi-pass membrane protein.

Target Protein Families

G-protein coupled receptor 1 family

Target Tissue Specificity

Expressed in melanocytes. Expressed in corticoadrenal tissue.

Target Research Area

Signal Transduction

Target Synonyms

MSH-R;Melanocortin receptor 1;MC1-R

Target Background

This intronless gene encodes the receptor protein for melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). The encoded protein, a seven pass transmembrane G protein coupled receptor, controls melanogenesis. Two types of melanin exist: red pheomelanin and black eumelanin. Gene mutations that lead to a loss in function are associated with increased pheomelanin production, which leads to lighter skin and hair color. Eumelanin is photoprotective but pheomelanin may contribute to UV-induced skin damage by generating free radicals upon UV radiation. Binding of MSH to its receptor activates the receptor and stimulates eumelanin synthesis. This receptor is a major determining factor in sun sensitivity and is a genetic risk factor for melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. Over 30 variant alleles have been identified which correlate with skin and hair color, providing evidence that this gene is an important component in determining normal human pigment variation.