Melanocortin Receptor 3 (MC3R)

Melanocortin receptor 3 (MC3R) is a G-protein coupled receptor primarily expressed in the brain, especially regions involved in energy homeostasis and feeding behavior. It plays a role in regulating body fat-to-mass ratio, appetite, growth, and puberty timing. Loss-of-function mutations are associated with increased adiposity, delayed puberty, and reduced growth rate. It is involved in neuroendocrine and circadian rhythm regulation, and may play a role in cardiovascular function and thermoregulation.

Other names

MC3OB20OQTLBMIQ9MC3-R

Acts via cAMP pathway after activation by melanocortin peptides (e.g., γ-MSH, α-MSH, β-MSH, ACTH), leading to Gs protein activation and increased intracellular cAMP levels.