MCH
Neuromodulation / Feeding-SleepAlso known as: Melanin-Concentrating Hormone, PMCH
NeuropeptidesResearch phase: PreclinicalRegulatory: Not approved as drug. Endogenous neuropeptide. MCHR1 antagonists discontinued in pharma pipelines.
Mechanism
MCH is a brain hormone that stimulates appetite and promotes REM sleep. It is a major orexigenic signal, and MCH receptor antagonists have been explored for obesity and sleep disorders.
Technical detail
Melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) is a cyclic 19-amino acid neuropeptide expressed in lateral hypothalamic neurons projecting broadly throughout the CNS. It signals through MCHR1 (SLC-1, all mammals) and MCHR2 (primates only). MCH promotes feeding, reduces energy expenditure, and is essential for REM sleep regulation. MCHR1 knockout mice are lean and hyperactive. Small molecule MCHR1 antagonists have been explored for obesity.