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Review
. 2014 Feb;15(2):98-110.
doi: 10.1038/nrn3657.

Synaptic changes induced by melanocortin signalling

Vanni Caruso, Malin C Lagerström, Pawel K Olszewski, Robert Fredriksson, Helgi B Schiöth
Review

Synaptic changes induced by melanocortin signalling

Vanni Caruso et al. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2014 Feb.

Abstract

The melanocortin system has a well-established role in the regulation of energy homeostasis, but there is growing evidence of its involvement in memory, nociception, mood disorders and addiction. In this Review, we focus on the role of the melanocortin 4 receptor and provide an integrative view of the molecular mechanisms that lead to melanocortin-induced changes in synaptic plasticity within these diverse physiological systems. We also highlight the importance of melanocortin peptides and receptors in chronic pain syndromes, memory impairments, depression and drug abuse, and the possibility of targeting them for therapeutic purposes.

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