alphamelanocytes

Alpha-melanocytes are a type of cell found in the adrenal cortex of some animals, notably amphibians. These cells are distinct from melanocytes, which are responsible for pigment production in the skin and other tissues. Alpha-melanocytes are primarily involved in the endocrine system, secreting hormones. Specifically, they produce alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH), a peptide hormone that plays a role in various physiological processes.

In amphibians, alpha-MSH secreted by alpha-melanocytes influences skin pigmentation, causing the skin to darken. This response is often triggered by changes in the environment, such as background color or light intensity, and serves as a form of camouflage. Beyond pigmentation, alpha-MSH also has other effects, including influencing appetite, inflammation, and reproductive behavior. The presence and function of alpha-melanocytes are more prominent and well-studied in amphibians compared to mammals. In mammals, the production of alpha-MSH is largely attributed to cells in the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland, rather than dedicated alpha-melanocytes in the adrenal cortex. The precise role and existence of distinct alpha-melanocytes in mammalian adrenal glands are subjects of ongoing research.