Impact of Alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone on Mitochondrial Function in Human Dermal Fibroblasts

    November 2025 in “ Journal of Investigative Dermatology ”
    Damian Józef Flis, Agatha Stegemann, Andżelika Borkowska, Wiesław Ziółkowski, Michael Böhm
    TLDR Alpha-MSH affects mitochondrial function, and MC1R mutations may increase skin aging.
    This study investigates the impact of alpha-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) on mitochondrial function in human dermal fibroblasts, focusing on the role of melanocortin receptor 1 (MC1R). The research compares wild-type MC1R fibroblasts (MC1R-wt-HDFs) with loss-of-function MC1R fibroblasts (MC1R-LOF-HDFs). Results show that MC1R-LOF-HDFs have significantly lower oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) coupling efficiency and mitochondrial respiration after alpha-MSH treatment compared to MC1R-wt-HDFs. The study highlights the potential link between alpha-MSH-MC1R signaling and mitochondrial function, suggesting that MC1R mutations may contribute to increased photoaging. Further research is being conducted to explore the modulation of mitochondrial function through cAMP signaling pathways.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 1000+ results

      community Please explain this Minoxidil phenomena

      in Minoxidil  58 upvotes 2 years ago
      The post discusses the difference in effects of Minoxidil (Min) on scalp and facial hair. The user questions why Min-induced hair growth on the scalp is temporary, while facial hair growth seems permanent, even after stopping Min. They propose theories, including different Min mechanisms on body and facial hair, the role of DHT, and the possibility of not achieving fully terminal hair. The responses include personal experiences and theories about Min's effects on hair growth.

      community 13 WEEKS MICRONEEDLING MONOTHERAPY

      in Microneedling  187 upvotes 3 years ago
      A user's experience with microneedling monotherapy and potential treatments such as finasteride, minoxidil, Stemoxydine, rosemary oil, peppermint oil, and RU58841 for reversing hair loss.

      community Alpha plus from Anagenica - 25%CB???

      in Product  2 upvotes 2 years ago
      A user ordered Alpha Plus from Anagenica, expecting it to contain specific percentages of Fin, Estradiol, Minoxidil, and CB0301. However, the received product's label showed different percentages, including a surprising 25% CB, leading the user to question its safety and accuracy.

      community Journey and recommendation for Bay Area doctor

      in Treatment  2 upvotes 2 years ago
      The user has tried various hair loss treatments including minoxidil, finasteride, and others, experiencing side effects and is seeking recommendations for a knowledgeable doctor in the California Bay Area. They had a negative experience with one doctor and are considering a hair transplant but want to avoid further side effects.

    Similar Research

    5 / 1000+ results