Microglial cells are responsible for immune surveillance within the CNS. They respond to
noxious stimuli by releasing inflammatory mediators and mounting an effective inflammatory …

Abstract The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) was cloned in 1993 by degenerate PCR;
however, its function was unknown. Subsequent studies suggest that the MC4R might be …

The melanocortinergic neural circuit, known for its influence on energy expenditure and
feeding behavior, also plays a role in stress and stress-induced psychiatric disorders …

Abstract Treatment of chronic orofacial pain remains a major therapeutic challenge despite
available medications. Melanocortins have been implicated in pathologic pain. Intrathecal …

Astrocytes exert a wide variety of functions with paramount importance in brain physiology.
After injury or infection, astrocytes become reactive and they respond by producing a variety …

Objectives: Substantial evidence shows that spinal melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) may
participate in regulation of central sensitization and chronic pain condition induced by …

When the nerve tissue is injured, endogenous agonist of melanocortin type 4 (MC4)
receptor, α-MSH, exerts tonic pronociceptive action in the central nervous system …

Astrocytes exert a wide variety of functions with paramount importance in brain physiology.
After injury or infection, astrocytes become reactive and they respond by producing a variety …

The metabolism of arachidonic acid may follow multiple, inter-related pathways, leading to
the generation or release of a wide variety of biologically active substances (including …

The endogenous opioid system plays an important role in the behavioral effects of nicotine.
Thus, μ-opioid receptor and the endogenous opioids derived from proenkephalin are …