Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone
Also known as: alpha-MSH, alpha MSH, NDP-MSH, afamelanotide precursor
Pituitary peptide that stimulates melanin production; studied for tanning and anti-inflammatory effects.
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Overview
Peptide hormone in mammals
α-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is an endogenous peptide hormone and neuropeptide of the melanocortin family, with a tridecapeptide structure and the amino acid sequence Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Met-Glu-His-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2. It is the most important of the melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSHs) (also known as melanotropins) in stimulating melanogenesis, a process that in mammals (including humans) is responsible for pigmentation primarily of the hair and skin. It also plays a role in feeding behavior, energy homeostasis, sexual activity, and protection against ischemia and reperfusion injury.
Mechanism of Action
α-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is an endogenous peptide hormone and neuropeptide of the melanocortin family, with a tridecapeptide structure and the amino acid sequence Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Met-Glu-His-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2. It is the most important of the melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSHs) (also known as melanotropins) in stimulating melanogenesis, a process that in mammals (including humans) is responsible for pigmentation primarily of the hair and skin. It also plays a role in feeding behavior, energy homeostasis, sexual activity, and protection against ischemia and reperfusion injury.
What Researchers Are Saying
Community Reports - Not Medical Advice
The following is aggregated from public forums, Reddit, and research communities. These are anecdotal reports from researchers only - not verified clinical data and not a recommendation of any kind.
Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone (also known as alpha-MSH, alpha MSH) is studied within the dermatology and hair growth research community. Pituitary peptide that stimulates melanin production; studied for tanning and anti-inflammatory effects.
Last updated October 28, 2026
Research status: active. Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone appears across dermatology and hair growth research forums and academic literature. Researchers note this compound falls in the hair skin category.
Last updated October 28, 2026
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