MC4R Agonists: Structural Overview on Antiobesity Therapeutics

Juliana Gonçalves, Daniel Palmer, Morten Peter Meldal

19 Citationer (Scopus)

Abstract

The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) regulates adipose tissue formation and energy homeostasis, and is believed to be a monogenic target for novel antiobesity therapeutics. Several research efforts targeting this receptor have identified potent and selective agonists. While viable agonists have been characterized in vitro, undesirable side effects frequently appeared during clinical trials. The most promising candidates have diverse structures, including linear peptides, cyclic peptides, and small molecules. Herein, we present a compilation of potent MC4R agonists and discuss the pivotal structural differences within those molecules that resulted in good selectivity for MC4R over other melanocortins. We provide insight on recent progress in the field and reflect on directions for development of new agonists.

OriginalsprogEngelsk
TidsskriftTrends in Pharmacological Sciences
Vol/bind39
Udgave nummer4
Sider (fra-til)402-423
Antal sider22
ISSN0165-6147
DOI
StatusUdgivet - apr. 2018

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