Alpha-MSH Peptides Show Promise for Inflammatory Diseases
Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone and related tripeptides: biochemistry, antiinflammatory and protective effects in vitro and in vivo, and future perspectives for the treatment of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.
Background
Immune-mediated inflammatory diseases represent a significant global health burden, often characterized by chronic inflammation and tissue damage. Current treatments can have severe side effects or limited efficacy, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic strategies. This review consolidates the current understanding of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) and its related tripeptides, exploring their biochemical properties and robust anti-inflammatory and protective effects across various models, to identify their potential as future treatments.