Melanin concentrating hormone

Melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) is a cyclic orexinogenic hypothalamic peptide originally isolated from the pituitary gland of teleost fish where it controls skin pigmentation.

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In mammals it is involved in the regulation of feeding behavior and energy balance. MCH expressing neurons are located within the lateral hypothalamus and zona incerta. Despite this restricted distribution MCH neurons project widely throughout the brain. MCH knockout rats are hypophagic (eat less) and are lean. When administered centrally it increases food intake and weight gain.

See also

Melanin-concentrating hormone receptor