The Neuropeptide α‐MSH in Host Defense

Abstract: The presence of the ancient peptide a‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (α‐MSH) in barrier organs such as gut and skin suggests that this potent anti‐inflammatory molecule may be a component of the innate host defense. In tests of antimicrobial activities, α‐MSH and its fragment KPV showed inhibitory influences against the gram‐positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus and the yeast Candida albicans. Anti‐tumor necrosis factor and antimicrobial effects of a‐MSH suggest that the peptide might likewise reduce replication of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Treatment with α‐MSH reduced HIV replication in chronically and acutely infected human monocytes. At the molecular level, α‐MSH inhibited activation of the transcription factor NF‐κB known to enhance HIV expression. α‐MSH that combines antipyretic, anti‐inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects could be useful in the treatment of disorders in which infection and inflammation coexist.

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