Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) is a common precursor polypeptide synthesized in corticotrophs of the anterior pituitary. Cleavage of POMC yields multiple bioactive peptides. Which of the following is NOT a product of POMC cleavage in the human anterior pituitary?
- A Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) ✓
- B Beta-lipotropin (beta-LPH)
- C Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
- D Corticotropin-like intermediate lobe peptide (CLIP)
Correct answer: A. Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH)
Explanation
In the human anterior pituitary, POMC is cleaved by prohormone convertase 1 (PC1) to yield ACTH, beta-LPH, and beta-endorphin. CLIP is a fragment of ACTH. Alpha-MSH is produced mainly in the intermediate lobe of the pituitary, which is rudimentary in adult humans. Thus alpha-MSH is not a significant product of anterior pituitary POMC cleavage in humans.
Reference: Williams Textbook of Endocrinology, 14th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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