Pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) is a precursor protein expressed in the pituitary and the brain where it is processed into several peptide hormones and neuropeptides. Among these peptides are ACTH,α- and β-MSH,β-and γ-LPH,CLIP,β-endorphin,and N-POMC. POMC is involved in hypothalamic circuits regulating feeding behavior and POMC-producing neurons promote satiety. POMC neurons are also the target of leptin and insulin for the promotion of the browning of white fat.
