POMCneuronien

POMCneuronien refers to neurons that express pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC). POMC is a precursor protein that is cleaved into several biologically active peptides, including alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), beta-endorphin, and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). These peptides play crucial roles in a variety of physiological processes, including appetite regulation, energy balance, stress response, and analgesia.

POMC neurons are primarily located in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus, a key area of the brain involved in regulating homeostatic functions. Within the arcuate nucleus, POMC neurons are a critical component of the satiety signaling pathway. When activated by certain hormonal signals, such as leptin, POMC neurons release α-MSH. α-MSH then acts on melanocortin receptors (specifically MC4R) in other brain regions, such as the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and the lateral hypothalamus, to reduce food intake and increase energy expenditure.

Dysfunction or altered activity of POMC neurons is implicated in various conditions, including obesity and eating disorders. Genetic mutations affecting the POMC gene or its downstream signaling pathways can lead to severe early-onset obesity. Conversely, targeting POMC neurons or their receptors is a strategy being explored for the development of anti-obesity medications. Beyond appetite, the beta-endorphin released by POMC neurons contributes to pain modulation and reward pathways. The ACTH produced by POMC neurons is involved in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a major stress response system.