Melanin concentrating hormone

Melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) is a cyclic 19-amino acid orexigenic hypothalamic peptide originally isolated from the pituitary gland of teleost fish where it controls skin pigmentation.

In mammals it is involved in the regulation of feeding behavior, mood, sleep-wake cycle and energy balance. MCH expressing neurons are located within the lateral hypothalamus and zona incerta. Despite this restricted distribution MCH neurons project widely throughout the brain. MCH knockout mice are hypophagic (eat less) and lean and are hyperactive. When administered centrally it increases food intake and weight gain.