Abstract | PURPOSE OF REVIEW: RECENT FINDINGS: Recent reports include a description of the physiology of the melanocortin system and its responsiveness to inflammatory cytokines. Regarding treatment potential, multiple reports describe the effectiveness of small molecule antagonists of the melanocortin-4 receptor in animal models of cachexia. These melanocortin antagonists, given by peripheral injection, improve food intake and lean body mass retention in the setting of cancer and renal failure. Additional reports provide evidence of melanocortin antagonism following treatment of cachexia using ghrelin and eicosonoic acid. SUMMARY:
Cachexia is a serious condition that accompanies various disease states and currently does not have effective treatments. The melanocortin system may play a direct role in producing symptoms of cachexia, making antagonism of this system a logical objective for ameliorating these symptoms. Thus far, however, no data on human application have been published.
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Authors | Mark D DeBoer |
Journal | Current opinion in clinical nutrition and metabolic care
(Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care)
Vol. 10
Issue 4
Pg. 457-62
(Jul 2007)
ISSN: 1363-1950 [Print] England |
PMID | 17563464
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Review)
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Chemical References |
- Hormone Antagonists
- Melanocortins
- Receptors, Melanocortin
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Topics |
- Cachexia
(drug therapy)
- Chronic Disease
- Hormone Antagonists
(therapeutic use)
- Humans
- Melanocortins
(antagonists & inhibitors, physiology)
- Receptors, Melanocortin
(antagonists & inhibitors)
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