Definition of "opiomelanocortin" [opiomelanocortin]

• A polypeptide, found in the pituitary gland, associated with endorphins and other hormones (noun)

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• "In vitro, the stimulatory effect of ghrelin on NPY neurons orchestrates electrophysiological changes within the feeding circuits, including a GABAergic modulation of pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons and a dual GABA/NPYergic modulation of corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) neurons"
• "Although diabetes and obesity often go hand in hand, Dr. Elmquist said the new findings indicate that a group of brain cells called pro-opiomelanocortin, or POMC, neurons help regulate glucose and insulin independent of food intake and body weight."
• "POMC, or pro-opiomelanocortin, neurons are found in the hypothalamus region of the brain and are known to play an important role in suppressing appetite and inducing weight loss."