Evolution of appetite regulating systems: Difference between revisions

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{{CZ:(U00984) Appetite and Obesity, University of Edinburgh 2010/EZnotice}}
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Recently, there has been extensive research into the neuroendocrine mechanisms controlling appetite. The pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) gene has an important role in these mechanisms, particularly through production of [[alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone]] (α-MSH). POMC and its end-products have not only been identified in humans, but also in many other vertebrates. This has led to further research into the origins of the POMC gene and the '''evolution of appetite regulating systems'''.
The neural and hormonal pathways that are important in humans involve many elements that are also present in other organisms, and understanding the '''evolution of appetite regulating systems''' can tell us much about their organisation and function in humans.
This article details the structure and function of the POMC gene. It highlights variations between species, allowing a potential evolutionary route, originating at a common ancestral gene, to be mapped out.
 
When we eat, and how much we eat, are controlled by neuronal networks in the [[hypothalamus]] that respond to a wide variety of internal and external signals; these include both neural and [[ghrelin|hormonal signals]] from the stomach;, [[adipokine|hormonal signals]] from [[adipocyte|fat stores]]; and internal [[circadian]] signals that determine meal times. An important target for these signals is a neuronal population in the hypothalamus that expresses the [[pro-opiomelanocortin]] (POMC) gene. This gene has a particular importance in appetitite regulation; one product of POMC, the peptide [[alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone]] (α-MSH) is a powerful inhibitor of appetite though its actions on MC4 receptors. POMC and its end-products have not only been identified in humans, but also in many other vertebrates. This article focusses on the structure and function of the POMC gene. It highlights variations between species, allowing a potential evolutionary route, originating at a common ancestral gene, to be mapped out.


=Human POMC=
=Human POMC=
{{Image|POMC structure.jpg|right|450px|'''Fig. 1''' POMC and its post-translational processing, adapted from Millington<ref name=Millington07/>, and Raffin-Sanson ''et al''<ref name= Raffin-Sanson03/>.}}
The human POMC gene encodes a large [[precursor protein]], which is cleaved by [[prohormone convertase enzymes]] (PCs) into several different peptides. These include the [[melanocyte-stimulating hormone]]s (alpha-, beta-, gamma- MSH), [[adrenocorticotropic hormone]] (ACTH), the [[lipotropin]]s, and [[beta-endorphin]] <ref name=Yang03>Yang YK ''et al.'' (2003) Recent developments in our understanding of melanocortin system in the regulation of food intake ''Obesity Rev'' 4:239-48 PMID 14649374</ref>. ACTH and the MSHs are referred to as ''melanocortins'', and all have the same core amino acid sequence, HFRW <ref name=Dores05>Dores RM ''et al.'' (2005) Trends in the evolution of the proopiomelanocortin gene ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 142:81-93 PMID 15862552</ref>.
 
The human POMC gene encodes a hormone [[precursor protein]], which is then cleaved by [[prohormone convertase enzymes]] into a number of different peptides. These include the [[melanocyte-stimulating hormone]]s (alpha-, beta-, gamma- MSH), [[adrenocorticotropic hormone]] (ACTH), the [[lipotropin]]s, and [[beta-endorphin]] <ref name=Yang03>Yang YK ''et al.'' (2003) Recent developments in our understanding of melanocortin system in the regulation of food intake. ''Obesity Rev'' 4:239-48 PMID 14649374</ref>. ACTH and the MSHs are referred to as the ''melanocortins'', and all have the same core amino acid sequence, HFRW <ref name=Dores05>Dores RM ''et al.'' (2005) Trends in the evolution of the proopiomelanocortin gene ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 142:81-93 PMID 15862552</ref>.
 
The human POMC gene is on [[chromosome]] 2p23<ref name=Raffin-Sanson03>Raffin-Sanson ''et al.'' (2003) Proopiomelanocortin, a polypeptide precursor with multiple functions: from physiology to pathological conditions. ''Eur J Endocrinol'' 149:79–90  PMID 12887283.</ref>, and has three exons and two “large” introns<ref name=Millington07>Millington GW (2007) The role of proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurones in feeding behaviour ''Nutrition and Metabolism'' 4:18 PMID 17764572</ref>. Only exons two and three are translated; exon two codes for the signal peptide and the initial N-terminal amino acids, while exon three codes for “most of the translated mRNA” <ref name=Raffin-Sanson03/>.
 
After excision of the [[intron]]s to form a “parent” POMC, this molecule is then cleaved into its various [[peptide]]s, as mentioned above, by PCs, specifically PC1 and PC2<ref name=Millington07/>. These enzymes act at cleavage sites consisting of paired basic residues, arginine and lysine, and end-products of their action depend on which sites are used. As PC1 and PC2 act on different sites, and their expression varies in different tissues, processing of POMC peptides is tissue-specific <ref name=Raffin-Sanson03/>. For example, the anterior pituitary [[corticotroph]] cells only express PC1, which results in the cleavage of POMC into the NH2-terminal peptide (N-term), joining peptide (JP), ACTH, β-LPH, and some γ-LPH and β-endorphin (β-end)(see '''Fig. 2'''). The latter two peptides are produced because the “last cleavage site is only partially used”<ref name=Raffin-Sanson03/>. However, in melanotroph cells, found in the intermediate lobe of the rodent pituitary, and the human hypothalamus and placenta, both PC1 and PC2 are expressed. This means that all the cleavage sites are used and smaller peptides are produced <ref name=Millington07/>). N-term is therefore cleaved to the γ-MSHs, ACTH gives rise to α-MSH and CLIP (corticotropin-like intermediate lobe peptide) and γ-LPH to β-MSH<ref name=Raffin-Sanson03/>.
 
{{Image|POMC_PC1.jpg|left|400px|'''Fig. 2''' The cleavage of POMC by PC1, adapted from Raffin-Sanson ''et al''<ref name=Raffin-Sanson03/>.}}
 
 
The POMC gene is expressed in number of tissues in man and animals. These include the anterior, and intermediate (only in rodents) lobes of the pituitary gland. It is also present in the [[nucleus tractus solitarii]] (NTS)of the caudal medulla, and the hypothalamus, specifically the [[arcuate nucleus]]<ref name=Millington07/>. Its expression has also been noted in the skin and the immune system<ref name=Yang03/>,as well as other peripheral tissues.
 
The final products from the cleavage of POMC have a variety of functions. The melanocortins act on melanocortin receptors (MCRs) in different tissues. There are five types of MCR, and different melanocortin peptides bind to these with different affinities <ref name=Millington07/>, for example, ACTH binds mainly to MC2R (see '''Fig. 3''').
{{Image|Table.jpg|right|500px|'''Fig. 3''' The Melanocortin Receptors, adapted from Yang ''et al''<ref name=Yang03/>.}} 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


β-endorphin, on the other hand, is involved in pain processing as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Here it binds to [[opioid]] receptors, leading to an analgesic effect<ref name=Kawauchi06> Kawauchi H ''et al''. (2006) The dawn and evolution of hormones in the adenohypophysis ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 148:3-14 PMID 16356498.</ref> <ref name=Dores05/>


CLIP is found in many areas of the brain, especially in nerve fibres, and has an important role in REM sleep, which in turn helps with the consolidation of memories <ref>Grigoriev VV ''et al.'' (2009) Effect of corticotropin-Like intermediate lobe peptide on presynaptic and postsynaptic glutamate receptors and postsynaptic GABA Receptors in rat brain ''Bull Exp Biol Med'' 147:319-22 PMID 19529852.</ref>.
The human POMC gene is on [[chromosome]] 2p23, and has three [[exon]]s and two large [[intron]]s . Only exons two and three are translated; exon two codes for the signal peptide and the initial N-terminal amino acids, while exon three codes for most of the translated mRNA. After excision of the introns to form a “parent” POMC, this molecule is then cleaved by PC1 and PC2. These act at cleavage sites consisting of paired basic residues, arginine and lysine, and end-products of their action depend on which sites are used. As PC1 and PC2 act at different sites, and as their expression varies in different tissues, processing of POMC is tissue-specific. For example, the anterior pituitary [[corticotroph]] cells only express PC1, which results in the cleavage of POMC into the 'NH2-terminal peptide', 'joining peptide', ACTH, β-LPH, and some γ-LPH and [[β-endorphin]]. However, in rodent [[melanotroph]] cells and in the human hypothalamus and placenta, both PC1 and PC2 are expressed. This means that all the cleavage sites are used and smaller peptides are produced. The NH2-terminal peptide is cleaved to the γ-MSHs, ACTH gives rise to α-MSH and CLIP (corticotropin-like intermediate lobe peptide) and γ-LPH to β-MSH.<ref name=Raffin-Sanson03>Raffin-Sanson ''et al.'' (2003) Proopiomelanocortin, a polypeptide precursor with multiple functions: from physiology to pathological conditions ''Eur J Endocrinol'' 149:79–90  PMID 12887283.</ref><ref name=Millington07>Millington GW (2007) The role of proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurones in feeding behaviour ''Nutrition and Metabolism'' 4:18 PMID 17764572</ref>


The functions of β- and γ-LPH  are still uncertain, although lipotropins are known for their role in lipolysis, mobilizing lipids for energy production, and they are important in [[haematopoiesis]]<ref>Halabe BA (2008) The role of lipotropins as hematopoietic factors and their potential therapeutic use ''Exp Hematol'' 36:752-4 PMID 18358591</ref>.
{{Image|POMC_PC1.jpg|left|400px|'''The cleavage of POMC by PC1''', adapted from Raffin-Sanson ''et al.'' (2003) <ref name=Raffin-Sanson03/>.}}


=POMC, the Hypothalamus and Appetite Regulation=
The POMC gene is expressed in several tissues in man and other animals. These include the anterior, and intermediate lobes of the pituitary gland, the [[nucleus tractus solitarii]] (NTS) of the caudal medulla, and the [[arcuate nucleus]] of the hypothalamus.


In mammals, α-MSH is generally assumed to be the main POMC product involved in appetite regulation. α-MSH is a potent inhibitor of appetite ([[anorexigenic]]), acting on MC3-R and MC4-R in the arcuate nucleus. In POMC null mice, α-MSH was found to be the most potent anorexigenic signaller.<ref>Tung YCL ''et al.'' (2007) A comparative study of the central effects of specific proopiomelanocortin (POMC)-derived melanocortin peptides on food intake and body weight in POMC null mice. ''Endocrinology'' 147:5940-5947 PMID 16959830</ref>  
The final products from the cleavage of POMC have a variety of functions. The melanocortins act on melanocortin receptors (MCRs): there are five types of MCR, and different melanocortin peptides bind to these with different affinities; for example, ACTH binds mainly to MC2R.β-en dorphin, on the other hand binds to [[opioid]] receptors <ref name=Kawauchi06> Kawauchi H ''et al.'' (2006) The dawn and evolution of hormones in the adenohypophysis ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 148:3-14 PMID 16356498.</ref> <ref name=Dores05/>  


Rodents do not express β-MSH, but evidence has been found indicating an important role for β-MSH in human appetite regulation. A study screening for mutations in the β-MSH region of POMC found an increased incidence of the β-MSH variant Try221Cys in obese subjects. The variant was shown to have altered binding and signalling through MC4-R.<ref>Lee YS ''et al.'' (2006) A POMC variant implicates β-melanocyte-stimulating hormone in the control of human energy balance ''Cell Metabolism'' 3:135-40 PMID 16459314</ref>  
In mammals, α-MSH is generally assumed to be the main POMC product involved in appetite regulation. It is a potent inhibitor of appetite, acting on MC3-R and MC4-R in the arcuate nucleus. <ref>Tung YCL ''et al.'' (2007) A comparative study of the central effects of specific proopiomelanocortin (POMC)-derived melanocortin peptides on food intake and body weight in POMC null mice ''Endocrinology'' 147:5940-7 PMID 16959830</ref> Rodents do not express β-MSH, but it may have an important role in human appetite regulation. <ref>Lee YS ''et al.'' (2006) A POMC variant implicates β-melanocyte-stimulating hormone in the control of human energy balance ''Cell Metabol'' 3:135-40 PMID 16459314</ref>  


Desacetyl-α-MSH is a precursor for α-MSH and is widely distributed in the brain.<ref>Loh Y ''et al.'' (1980) MSH-like peptides in rat brain: identification and changes in level during development ''Biochem Biophys Res Commun'' 94:916-23 PMID 7396941</ref> Although desacetyl-α-MSH displays a similar potency for receptor binding to α-MSH, it does not affect food intake except at extremely high doses.<ref>Abbott ''et al.'' (2000). Investigation of the melanocyte stimulating hormones on food intake. Lack of evidence to support a role for the melanocortin-3-receptor ''Brain Res'' 869:203–10 PMID 10865075</ref>
Desacetyl-α-MSH is a precursor for α-MSH and is widely distributed in the brain.<ref>Loh Y ''et al.'' (1980) MSH-like peptides in rat brain: identification and changes in level during development ''Biochem Biophys Res Commun'' 94:916-23 PMID 7396941</ref> Although desacetyl-α-MSH displays a similar potency for receptor binding to α-MSH, it does not affect food intake except at extremely high doses.<ref>Abbott ''et al.'' (2000). Investigation of the melanocyte stimulating hormones on food intake. Lack of evidence to support a role for the melanocortin-3-receptor ''Brain Res'' 869:203–10 PMID 10865075</ref>
The arcuate nucleus contains several dirrerent neuronal types. There are two main populations of neurons regulating appetite; those expressing POMC, and those co-expressing [[neuropeptide Y]] (NPY) and [[agouti related peptide]] (AgRP), and which also signal with the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. The POMC neurones form part of the satiety pathway, and the NPY/AgRP neurones are part of [[orexigenic]] signalling.<ref name=Dhillo13>Dhillo WS ''et al.'' (2002) Hypothalamic interactions between neuropeptide Y, agouti-related protein, cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript and alpha-melanocytestimulating hormone in vitro in male rats ''J Neuroendocrinol'' 14:725-30 PMID 12213133</ref> AgRP acts as an [[inverse agonist]] at MC3-R and MC4-R, to help stimulate feeding.<ref name=Dhillo13/>


{{Image|Hypothalamic Pathways.jpg|right|500px|'''Fig. 4''' Hypothalamic Pathways involved in Appetite Regulation; adapted from Millington GWM<ref name=Millington07/>, Cowley ''et al.''<ref name=Cowley14/>, Cone RD<ref name=Cone16/>, Cowley ''et al.''<ref name=Cowley18/>, Schwartz ''et al''<ref>Schwartz MW ''et al''. (2000) Central nervous system control of food intake ''Nature'' 404:661-71 PMID 10766253</ref>}}
The POMC and NPY/AgRP neuron populations both express [[leptin]] receptors (LepRb). Leptin has opposing effects on these, activating the POMC neurons and inhibiting the NPY/AgRP neurons. <ref name=Cowley14>Cowley MA ''et al.'' (2001) Leptin activates anorexigenic POMC neurons through a neural network in the arcuate nucleus. ''Nature'' 441:480-4 PMID 11373681</ref> It is thought that the NPY/AgRP neurons project to inhibit the POMC neurons, partly mediated through [[GABA]] .<ref name=Cone16>Cone RD (2005) Anatomy and regulation of the central melanocortin system ''Nat Neurosci'' 8:571-8 PMID 15856065</ref> Using electron microscopy, co-expression of GABA and NPY was confirmed at these nerve terminals.<ref name=Cowley14/> Leptin also acts at the GABA nerve terminals to reduce the inhibition of POMC neurons.  
 
The arcuate nucleus (ARC) is found at the bottom of the hypothalamus and consists of several groupings of specific neurons (see '''Fig. 4'''). There are two main populations of neurons regulating appetite; those co-expressing POMC and [[cocaine and amphetamine regulated transcript]] (CART) and those co-expressing [[neuropeptide Y]] (NPY) and [[agouti related peptide]] (AgRP). The POMC/CART neurons form part of the satiety pathway in the arcuate nucleus and neurons co-expressing NPY and AgRP are part of [[orexigenic]] signalling.<ref name=Dhillo13>Dhillo WS ''et al.'' (2002) Hypothalamic interactions between neuropeptide Y, agouti-related protein, cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript and alpha-melanocytestimulating hormone in vitro in male rats ''J Neuroendocrinol'' 14:725-30 PMID 12213133</ref> AgRP acts as an [[inverse agonist]] at MC3-R and MC4-R, to help stimulate feeding.<ref name=Dhillo13/>
 
POMC/CART and NPY/AgRP neuron populations both express [[leptin]] receptors (LepRb). Leptin has opposing effects on each neuron population, activating the anorexigenic POMC neurons and inhibiting the orexigenic NPY/AgRP neurons, in the arcuate nucleus. Using transgenic mice expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP), two CNS regions expressing POMC in response to leptin were found: the arcuate nucleus and the NTS.<ref name=Cowley14>Cowley MA ''et al.'' (2001) Leptin activates anorexigenic POMC neurons through a neural network in the arcuate nucleus. ''Nature'' 441:480-4 PMID 11373681</ref> Another study used transgenic mice with POMC-GFP expression and NYP-GFP expression, measuring the number of inhibitory and excitatory postsynaptic currents. Leptin deficient (''ob/ob'') mice were shown to have an increased excitation of NPY neurons and increased inhibition of POMC neurons compared to their wild-type litter-mates. Treatment with leptin lead to normalisation of the synaptic signals to wild-type levels.<ref>Pinto S ''et al.'' (2004) Rapid rewiring of arcuate nucleus feeding circuits by leptin. ''Science'' 304:110-5 PMID 15064421</ref>
 
The full extent of the signalling between the neuron populations within the hypothalamus is not fully understood. It is thought that NPY neurons project to inhibit POMC expression, mediated through [[GABA]].<ref name=Cone16>Cone RD (2005) Anatomy and regulation of the central melanocortin system ''Nature Neurosci'' 8:571-8 PMID 15856065</ref> Using electron microscopy, co-expression of GABA and NPY was confirmed at these nerve terminals.<ref name=Cowley14/> Leptin also acts at the GABA nerve terminals to reduce the inhibition of POMC neurons.  


[[Ghrelin]] is the endogenous ligand for the [[GHS-Receptor]], which is densely expressed in both the arcuate nucleus and the [[ventromedial hypothalamus]]. Ghrelin mRNA has been shown to be expressed in the hyothalamus, using RT-PCR, but it is at present not clear whether the brain is a significant source of ghrelin. <ref>Kojima M ''et al''. (1999) Ghrelin is a growth-hormone-releasing acylated from stomach ''Nature'' 402:656–60 PMID 10604470</ref>There is some immunocytochemical evidence for ghrelin-containing axons in several hypothalamic nuclei, but at present it is thought that circulating ghrelin, secreted from the empty stomach, is the key appetite-regulating signal.  Ghrelin was shown using fluorescent protein tagged NPY neurons, to increase release of NPY and AgRP, as well as increasing the GABA-mediated inhibition of POMC neurons. <ref name=Cowley18>Cowley MA ''et al.'' (2003) The distribution and mechanism of action of ghrelin in the CNS demonstrates a novel hypothalamic circuit regulating energy homeostasis ''Neuron'' 37:649-61 PMID 12597862</ref>   
[[Ghrelin]] is the endogenous ligand for the [[GHS-Receptor]], which is densely expressed in both the arcuate nucleus and the [[ventromedial hypothalamus]]. <ref>Kojima M ''et al''. (1999) Ghrelin is a growth-hormone-releasing acylated from stomach ''Nature'' 402:656–60 PMID 10604470</ref> Ghrelin  increases the activity of NPY/AgRP neurons. <ref name=Cowley18>Cowley MA ''et al.'' (2003) The distribution and mechanism of action of ghrelin in the CNS demonstrates a novel hypothalamic circuit regulating energy homeostasis ''Neuron'' 37:649-61 PMID 12597862</ref>   


There are five NPY receptors (Y1-Y5), which are also activated by the closely related peptide [[PYY]]. Using specific receptor agonists and measuring the effect on POMC mRNA levels, it was found that NPY down-regulates POMC expression through the Y2 receptor.<ref>Garcia de Yebenes E ''et al''. (1995) Regulation of proopiomelanocortin gene expression by neuropeptide Y in the rat arcuate nucleus. ''Brain Research'' 674:112-116 PMID 7773678</ref> Interestingly, activation of a presynaptic Y2 autoreceptor  suppresses NPY release. PYY3-36, a satiety signal released from the gut after a meal, acts as an agonist at the presynaptic Y2 receptors on the nerve terminals of NPY/AgRP/GABA neurons. This leads to suppression of NPY release and increased POMC release in the arcuate nucleus.<ref>Batterham RL ''et al.'' (2002) Gut hormone PYY3-36 physiologically inhibits food intake. ''Nature'' 418:650-654 PMID 12167864</ref>
There are five NPY receptors (named Y1-Y5), and NPY down-regulates POMC mRNA expression through the Y2 receptor.<ref>Garcia de Yebenes E ''et al''. (1995) Regulation of proopiomelanocortin gene expression by neuropeptide Y in the rat arcuate nucleus ''Brain Res'' 674:112-116 PMID 7773678</ref> [[PYY]]3-36, a satiety signal released from the gut after a meal, acts as an agonist at the presynaptic Y2 receptors on the nerve terminals of NPY/AgRP/GABA neurons. This is thought to lead to suppression of NPY and GABA release, and hence to increased electrical acivity of the POMC neurones in the arcuate nucleus.<ref>Batterham RL ''et al.'' (2002) Gut hormone PYY3-36 physiologically inhibits food intake. ''Nature'' 418:650-654 PMID 12167864</ref>


POMC neurons involved in regulation of appetite are also found in the NTS, with projections to the [[paraventricular nucleus]] and elsewhere. [[Cholecystokinin]] (CCK) is another satiety-inducing peptide from the gut. Its effects are mediated through CCK1 receptors and vagal afferents to the NTS. Both feeding and intraperitoneal injection of CCK8 resulted in increased c-''fos'' expression in NTS POMC neurons.<ref>Fan W ''et al.'' (2004) Cholecystokinin-mediated suppression of feeding involves the brainstem melanocortin system. ''Nature Neurosci'' 7(4):335-336 PMID 15034587</ref>  The PVN contains [[oxytocin]] neurons that project to the NTS, and which are part of a feedback mechanism to stomach, closing off the gastric sphincter. In addition, [[magnocellular]] oxytocin neurons in both the supraoptic nucleus and the PVN have MC4 receptors, and in response to α-MSH can release large amounts of oxytocin from their dendrites within the hypothalamus; the magnocellular neurones are also excited by gastric distension, and by systemic administration of CCK. The sites of action of dendritically released oxytocin are not clear, but the  VMH is a likely target, as it has a very high density of oxytocin receptors.


=Species Variation in the POMC Gene=
=Species Variation in the POMC Gene=


{{Image|Evolutionary tree.JPG|centre|900px|'''Fig. 5''' Evolutionary Tree for Vertebrates, adapted from Dores ''et al''<ref name=Dores05/>}}
{{Image|Evolutionary tree.JPG|centre|700px|'''Evolutionary Tree for Vertebrates''', adapted from Dores ''et al.''<ref name=Dores05/>}}
 


The first vertebrates to evolve, about 530 million years ago, were jawless. Members of the agnatha superclass, the oldest extant class of vertebrates, are the jaw-less descendants of these early vertebrates. Modern day agnathans include lampreys and hagfish. The Gnathostomes (jawed vertebrates), appeared during the Middle Devonian era (~380 millions years ago) and bifurcated into the cartilaginous fish (Chondrichthyes) and the bony fish (Osteichthyes).  
The first vertebrates to evolve, about 530 million years ago, were jawless. Members of the agnatha superclass, the oldest [[extant]] class of vertebrates, are the jawless descendants of these early vertebrates. Modern day agnathans include lampreys and hagfish. The Gnathostomes (jawed vertebrates), appeared during the Middle Devonian era (~380 millions years ago) and bifurcated into the cartilaginous fish (Chondrichthyes) and the bony fish (Osteichthyes).  


The Chondrichthyes diverged from the other major class of gnathostomes, the Osteichthyes, between 440 and 420 million years ago; and by 410 million years ago the two extant subclasses had been formed, Elasmobranchi and Holecephali. Osteichthyes is the largest class of vertebrates and can be divided into the Actinopterygians (ray-finned fish) and the Sarcopterygians (lobe-finned fish). The earliest tetrapods evolved from a common ancestor from the Sarcopterygii class during the Devonian era.
The Chondrichthyes diverged from the other major class of gnathostomes, the Osteichthyes, between 440 and 420 million years ago; and by 410 million years ago the two extant subclasses had been formed, Elasmobranchi and Holecephali. Osteichthyes is the largest class of vertebrates and can be divided into the Actinopterygians (ray-finned fish) and the Sarcopterygians (lobe-finned fish). The earliest tetrapods evolved from a common ancestor from the Sarcopterygii class during the Devonian era.


==Vertebrates==
===''Agnatha''===
 
Two POMC-related DNA sequences were found in lamprey using cDNA cloning. It is thought that these two genes originated from a single ancestral lamprey POMC gene which was duplicated. The two genes then evolved and diverged according to their tissue-specific functions. The final products of the two genes, after post-translational modification, are the same as in gnathostomes.<ref name=Kawauchi06/> One gene wo encodes two MSH sequences (MSH-A and MSH-B) and beta-endorphin, but not ACTH, and so was named ''proopimelanotropin'' (POM). The other gene encodes ACTH, a different beta-endorphin and nasohypophyseal factor, and was named ''proopiocortin'' (POC). The gene structures of POM and POC were consistent with gnathostomes POMC (three exons and two introns).<ref>Takahashi A ''et al.'' (2005) Structures for the proopiomelanocortin family genes proopiocortin and proopiomelanotropin in the sea lamprey ''Petromyzon''</ref>. Northern blot analysis showed tissue specific expression of POM and POC in the pars intermedia and pars distalis respectively, and similar distribution of MSH and ACTH to other vertebrates.<ref>Takahashi A ''et al.'' (1995) Melanotropin and corticotrophin are encoded on two distinct genes in the lamprey, the earliest evolved extant vertebrate. ''Biochem Biophys Res Comm'' 213:490-8 PMID 7646504</ref>
===Agnatha===
 
Two POMC-related DNA sequences were found in lamprey using cDNA cloning. The final products, after post-translational modification, of the two genes are the same as in gnathostomes.<ref name=Kawauchi06/> One gene was found to encode 2 MSH sequences (labelled MSH-A and MSH-B) and beta-endorphin, but not ACTH, and so was named proopimelanotropin (POM). The other gene encoded ACTH, a different beta-endorphin and nasohypophyseal factor, and was named proopiocortin (POC). The gene structure of POM and POC was consistent with gnathostomes POMC (3 exons and 2 introns).<ref>Takahashi A ''et al''. (2005). Structures for the proopiomelanocortin family genes proopiocortin and proopiomelanotropin in the sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus. ''General Comparative Endocrinology'' 144:174–181 PMID 15979617</ref>  
 
Northern blot analysis showed tissue specific expression of POM and POC in the pars intermedia and pars distalis respectively, and similar distribution of MSH and ACTH to other vertebrates.<ref>Takahashi A ''et al''. (1995) Melanotropin and corticotrophin are encoded on two distinct genes in the lamprey, the earliest evolved extant vertebrate. ''Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communciations'' 213(2):490-498 PMID 7646504</ref> It is thought that the POC and POM genes originated from a single ancestral lamprey POMC gene which was duplicated. The 2 genes then evolved and diverged according to their tissue specific functions.


===Gnathostomes===
===''Gnathostomes''===
   
   
===='''Osteichthyes'''====
===='''Osteichthyes'''====


'''Sarcoptergii'''
POMC organisation among vertebrates in the ''Sarcoptergii'' class, consisting of the lobe-finned fish and the tetrapods, is very similar<ref name=Dores05/>. POMC in tetrapods, as described above, has three melanocortin sequences (γ-MSH, ACTH/α-MSH, and β-MSH) and a β-endorphin sequence. Lobe-finned fish, consisting of the lungfish and coelacanths <ref name=Takahashi06>Takahashi A, Kawauchi H (2006) Evolution of melanocortin systems in fish ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 148:85-94 PMID 16289182</ref>, also have three MSHs in their POMC, as well as one β-END. There are also many similarities between the POMC amino acid sequences of species within the Sarcoptergii class<ref name=Dores05/>. This highlights the fact that tetrapods and lobe-finned fish share a common POMC ancestor. However, mutations have been found in the core sequence of the γ-MSH region in POMC of one species of lobe-finned fish (the Australian lungfish). Similar mutations have been found in some ray-finned fish, but not in other lobe-finned fish, or tetrapods <ref name=Dores99>Dores RM ''et al.'' (1999). Cloning of a proopiomelanocortin cDNA from the pituitary of the Australian lungfish, ''Neoceratodus forsteri'': analyzing trends in the organization of this prohormone precursor ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 116:433-44 PMID 10603281</ref>. This suggests that in the Australian lungfish, the γ-MSH sequence may be degenerating. This is similar to what has occurred in ray-finned fish.  
 
POMC organisation among vertebrates in the Sarcoptergii class, consisting of the lobe-finned fish and the tetrapods, is very similar<ref name=Dores05/>. POMC in tetrapods, as described above, has three melanocortin sequences (γ-MSH, ACTH/α-MSH, and β-MSH) and a β-endorphin sequence. Lobe-finned fish, consisting of the lungfish and coelacanths <ref name=Takahashi06>Takahashi A, Kawauchi H (2006). Evolution of melanocortin systems in fish. ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 148:85-94 PMID 16289182. </ref>, also have three MSHs in their POMC, as well as one β-END. There are also many similarities between the POMC amino acid sequences of species within the Sarcoptergii class<ref name=Dores05/>. This highlights the fact that tetrapods and lobe-finned fish share a common POMC ancestor. However, mutations have been found in the core sequence of the γ-MSH region in POMC of one species of lobe-finned fish (the Australian lungfish). Similar mutations have also been found in some ray-finned fish, but not in other lobe-finned fish, or tetrapods <ref name=Dores99>Dores RM ''et al'' (1999). Cloning of a proopiomelanocortin cDNA from the pituitary of the Australian lungfish, Neoceratodus forsteri: analyzing trends in the organization of this prohormone precursor. ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 116(3):433-44 PMID 10603281. </ref>. This suggests that in the Australian lungfish, the γ-MSH sequence may be degenerating. This is similar to what has occurred in ray-finned fish (see below).  


'''Actinopterygii'''
Like the Sarcoptergians, some ray-finned fish, ''Actinopterygii'') such as the [[paddlefish]] and the [[sturgeon]], have three MSH regions in their POMC sequences. However, mutations have been found in the core sequence of the γ-MSH sequence in these species, and at the proposed cleavage sites marking this region<ref name=Dores99/><ref name=Kawauchi06/>, which probably means that it is non-functional and γ-MSH is not produced<ref name=Amemiya97>Amemiya Y ''et al.'' (1997). Sturgeon proopiomelanocortin has a remnant of gamma-melanotropin ''Biochem Biophys Res Commun'' 230:452-6 PMID 9016801</ref><ref name=Dores05/>. These mutations are similar to those found in the Australian lungfish.


Like the Sarcoptergians, some ray-finned fish, such as the paddlefish and the sturgeon, have three MSH regions in their POMC sequences. However, mutations have been found in the core sequence of the γ-MSH sequence in these species, and at the proposed cleavage sites marking this region<ref name=Dores99/><ref name=Kawauchi06/>, which probably means that it is non-functional and γ-MSH is not produced<ref name=Amemiya97>Amemiya Y ''et al'' (1997). Sturgeon proopiomelanocortin has a remnant of gamma-melanotropin. ''Biochem Biophys Res Commun'' 230(2):452-6 PMID 9016801.</ref><ref name=Dores05/>. These mutations are similar to those found in the Australian lungfish, described above.
All teleosts (a type of ray-finned fish), do not have the γ-MSH region at all. By sequencing the nucleotides of POMC mRNA, Kitahara ''et al.''<ref name=Kitahara88>Kitahara N ''et al.'' (1988) Absence of a gamma-melanocyte-stimulating hormone sequence in proopiomelanocortin mRNA of chum salmon ''Oncorhynchus keta''. ''Comp Biochem Physiol B'' 91:365-70 PMID 3197404</ref> noted its absence in salmon, and the same has been found in other teleosts<ref name=Dores05/>. This supports the theory that the POMC gene in ray-finned fish accumulated mutations in the γ-MSH region over time, leading to its eventual deletion in teleosts<ref name=Dores99/><ref name=Kawauchi06/><ref name=Danielson99>Danielson PB ''et al.'' (1999) Duplication of the POMC gene in the paddlefish (Polyodon spathula): analysis of gamma-MSH, ACTH, and beta-endorphin regions of ray-finned fish POMC ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 116:164-77 PMID 10562447</ref>.
All teleosts, a type of ray-finned fish, do not have the γ-MSH region at all. By sequencing the nucleotides of POMC mRNA, Kitahara ''et al''<ref name=Kitahara88>Kitahara N ''et al'' (1988). Absence of a gamma-melanocyte-stimulating hormone sequence in proopiomelanocortin mRNA of chum salmon Oncorhynchus keta. ''Comp Biochem Physiol B'' 91(2):365-70 PMID 3197404.</ref> noted its absence in salmon, and the same has been found in other teleosts<ref name=Dores05/>. This suggests the theory that the POMC gene in ray-finned fish accumulated mutations in the γ-MSH region over time, leading to its eventual deletion in teleosts<ref name=Dores99/><ref name=Kawauchi06/><ref name=Danielson99>Danielson PB ''et al'' (1999). Duplication of the POMC gene in the paddlefish (Polyodon spathula): analysis of gamma-MSH, ACTH, and beta-endorphin regions of ray-finned fish POMC. ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 116(2):164-77 PMID 10562447.</ref><ref name=Dores05/>.


Some ray-finned fish also express two or more POMC genes. For example, in the paddlefish, two POMC cDNA clones have been found<ref name=Danielson99/>. This is the same in sockeye salmon, rainbow trout, and sturgeon<ref name=Takahashi06/>. However, in the flounder, three have been noted<ref>Takahashi A ''et al'' (2005). Nucleotide sequence and expression of three subtypes of proopiomelanocortin mRNA in barfin flounder. ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 141(3):291-303 PMID 15804516.</ref>. It has therefore been suggested that there has been duplication of the POMC gene in ray-finned fish<ref name=Danielson99/>.  
Some ray-finned fish also express two or more POMC genes. In the paddlefish, two POMC cDNA clones have been found<ref name=Danielson99/>. This is the same in [[sockeye salmon]], [[rainbow trout]], and sturgeon<ref name=Takahashi06/>. However, in the [[flounder]], three have been noted (POMC-A, POMC-B and POMC-C)<ref>Takahashi A ''et al'' (2005) Nucleotide sequence and expression of three subtypes of proopiomelanocortin mRNA in barfin flounder ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 141:291-303 PMID 15804516</ref>. It has therefore been suggested that there has been duplication of the POMC gene in these ray-finned fish. Unlike in the lamprey, these genes are still all co-expressed in the pituitary<ref name=Dores05/> and encode the same hormones as the tetrapod POMC. However, there are some differences between the two/three POMC genes expressed. For example, the β-MSH region is more highly conserved than the β-endorphin region in the paddlefish<ref name=Danielson99/> and POMC-C in the flounder has mutations in the β-endorphin sequence<ref name=Takahashi06/>. It has been suggested that in ray-finned fish, the degeneration of the γ-MSH sequence occurred after the duplication of the POMC gene<ref name=Danielson99/>.
Unlike in the lamprey, these genes are still all co-expressed in the pituitary<ref name=Dores05/> and encode the same hormones as the tetrapod POMC. There are some differences between the two/three POMC genes expressed however. For example, the β-MSH region is more highly conserved than the β-endorphin region in the paddlefish<ref name=Danielson99/> and POMC-C in the flounder has mutations in the β-endorphin sequence<ref name=Takahashi06/>.
It has been suggested that in ray-finned fish, the degeneration of the γ-MSH sequence occurred after the duplication of the POMC gene<ref name=Danielson99/>.


===='''Chondrichthyes'''====
===='''Chondrichthyes'''====


The major distinguishing feature of Chondrithyan POMC is the presence of a 4th MSH sequence, δ-MSH, between the ACTH/α-MSH and β-MSH domains. This has been extensively researched in several extant members of both subclasses. The presence of δ-MSH exclusively in all Chondrichthyes suggests that it emerged after the divergence of Chondrichthyans, but before the radiation into subclasses.<ref name=Kawauchi06/>
The major distinguishing feature of Chondrithyan POMC is the presence of a fourth MSH sequence, δ-MSH, between the ACTH/α-MSH and β-MSH domains. The presence of δ-MSH exclusively in all Chondrichthyes suggests that it emerged after the divergence of the Chondrichthyans, but before the radiation into subclasses.<ref name=Kawauchi06/>


The four MSHs can be classified into 2 groups, based on similarities in amino acid sequence and domain length: α-MSH/γ-MSH and β-MSH/δ-MSH. A region between δ- and β-MSH, known as the C-terminal extension of δ-MSH (CTED), was found to be very similar to the β-endorphin domain.<ref>Takahashi A ''et al''. (2004) Molecular cloning of proopiomelanocortin cDNA in the ratfish, a holocephalan. ''General and Comparative Endocrinology'' 135:159-165 PMID 14644656</ref> It has therefore been hypothesised that internal gene duplication of the β-MSH and β-endorphin domains, and subsequent mutations in the duplicated region, led to the formation of δ-MSH and CTED.
The four MSHs can be classified into two groups, based on similarities in amino acid sequence and domain length: α-MSH/γ-MSH and β-MSH/δ-MSH. A region between δ- and β-MSH, known as the C-terminal extension of δ-MSH (CTED), was found to be very similar to the β-endorphin domain.<ref>Takahashi A ''et al.'' (2004) Molecular cloning of proopiomelanocortin cDNA in the ratfish, a holocephalan ''Gen Comp Endocrinol'' 135:159-65 PMID 14644656</ref> It has therefore been hypothesised that internal gene duplication of the β-MSH and β-endorphin domains, and subsequent mutations in the duplicated region, led to the formation of δ-MSH and CTED.


{{Image|Evolution of pomc.JPG|right|500px|'''Fig. 6''' Hypothetical outline for the evolution and inheritance of the POMC gene, adapted from Dores ''et al''<ref name=Dores05/>, and Kawauchi ''et al''<ref name=Kawauchi06/>}}
{{Image|Evolution of pomc.JPG|right|500px|'''Hypothetical outline for the evolution and inheritance of the POMC gene''', adapted from Dores ''et al.'' (2005)<ref name=Dores05/>, and Kawauchi ''et al.'' (2006)<ref name=Kawauchi06/>}}


==Invertebrates==
==Invertebrates==
 
POMC peptides similar to those in vertebrates have been identified in invertebrates. The POMC genes contain the same domains in the same sequential order. Sequence identity of the leech POMC in its entirety was low when compared to vertebrate POMC, but ACTH and MSH display very high (over 80%) degrees of identity. Leech α-MSH displays the same inhibitory action on human leukocytes as vertebrate α-MSH. So, despite hundreds of millions of years of separate evolution and variations in peptide sequence, leech MSH is still able to act on a specific human MSH receptor.<ref name=Salzet97>Salzet M ''et al''. (1997) Leech immunocytes contain proopiomelanocortin : nitric oxide mediates hemolymph proopiomelanocortin processing. ''Journal of Immunology'' 159:5400-11 PMID 9548480</ref>
POMC peptides, similar to those in vertebrates, have been identified in invertebrates as well. The POMC genes were found to contain the same domains in the same sequential order. Sequence identity of the leech POMC in its entirety was low when compared to vertebrate POMC, however ACTH and MSH displayed very high (over 80%) degrees of identity.<ref name=Salzet97>Salzet M ''et al''. (1997) Leech immunocytes contain proopiomelanocortin : nitric oxide mediates hemolymph proopiomelanocortin processing. ''Journal of Immunology'' 159(11):5400-11 PMID 9548480</ref> It was also shown, through bioassays, that leech α-MSH displayed the same inhibitory action on human leukocytes as vertebrate α-MSH. So despite hundreds of millions of years of separate evolution and variations in peptide sequence, the leech MSH is still able to act on a specific human MSH receptor.<ref name=Salzet97/>
Molluscs have been found to contain a POMC-like peptide, similar to those found in mammals. Peptides formed from the precursor included γ-MSH, α-MSH, ACTH and a β-endorphin-like peptide.<ref>Stefano GB et al. (1999) Mytilus edulis hemolymph contains pro-opiomelanocortin: LPS and morphine stimulate differential processing. Brain Research. Molecular Brain Research 63(2):340-50 PMID 9878818</ref>
Molluscs contain a POMC-like peptide, similar to those found in mammals. Peptides formed from the precursor include γ-MSH, α-MSH, ACTH and a β-endorphin-like peptide.<ref>Stefano GB ''et al.'' (1999) Mytilus edulis hemolymph contains pro-opiomelanocortin: LPS and morphine stimulate differential processing ''Mol Brain Res'' 63:340-50 PMID 9878818</ref>


When taken together, these findings support the theory that POMC and its end-products originated very early in chordate evolution. The common existence of α-, β- and γ-MSH in the same order suggests that they appeared before the bifurcation of invertebrates and vertebrates. At some point, an ancestral POMC gene may have existed containing a single melanocortin domain and a β-endorphin domain. The ACTH/α-MSH sequence may have been the original melanocortin, as it has been very highly conserved throughout evolution, probably due to some functional selection pressure.<ref name=Dores05/>
Taken together, these findings support the theory that POMC and its end-products originated early in chordate evolution. The common existence of α-, β- and γ-MSH in the same order suggests that they appeared before the bifurcation of invertebrates and vertebrates. At some point, an ancestral POMC gene may have existed, containing a single melanocortin domain and a β-endorphin domain. The ACTH/α-MSH sequence may have been the original melanocortin, as it has been very highly conserved throughout evolution.<ref name=Dores05/>


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The neural and hormonal pathways that are important in humans involve many elements that are also present in other organisms, and understanding the evolution of appetite regulating systems can tell us much about their organisation and function in humans.

When we eat, and how much we eat, are controlled by neuronal networks in the hypothalamus that respond to a wide variety of internal and external signals; these include both neural and hormonal signals from the stomach;, hormonal signals from fat stores; and internal circadian signals that determine meal times. An important target for these signals is a neuronal population in the hypothalamus that expresses the pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) gene. This gene has a particular importance in appetitite regulation; one product of POMC, the peptide alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is a powerful inhibitor of appetite though its actions on MC4 receptors. POMC and its end-products have not only been identified in humans, but also in many other vertebrates. This article focusses on the structure and function of the POMC gene. It highlights variations between species, allowing a potential evolutionary route, originating at a common ancestral gene, to be mapped out.

Human POMC

The human POMC gene encodes a large precursor protein, which is cleaved by prohormone convertase enzymes (PCs) into several different peptides. These include the melanocyte-stimulating hormones (alpha-, beta-, gamma- MSH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), the lipotropins, and beta-endorphin [1]. ACTH and the MSHs are referred to as melanocortins, and all have the same core amino acid sequence, HFRW [2].


The human POMC gene is on chromosome 2p23, and has three exons and two large introns . Only exons two and three are translated; exon two codes for the signal peptide and the initial N-terminal amino acids, while exon three codes for most of the translated mRNA. After excision of the introns to form a “parent” POMC, this molecule is then cleaved by PC1 and PC2. These act at cleavage sites consisting of paired basic residues, arginine and lysine, and end-products of their action depend on which sites are used. As PC1 and PC2 act at different sites, and as their expression varies in different tissues, processing of POMC is tissue-specific. For example, the anterior pituitary corticotroph cells only express PC1, which results in the cleavage of POMC into the 'NH2-terminal peptide', 'joining peptide', ACTH, β-LPH, and some γ-LPH and β-endorphin. However, in rodent melanotroph cells and in the human hypothalamus and placenta, both PC1 and PC2 are expressed. This means that all the cleavage sites are used and smaller peptides are produced. The NH2-terminal peptide is cleaved to the γ-MSHs, ACTH gives rise to α-MSH and CLIP (corticotropin-like intermediate lobe peptide) and γ-LPH to β-MSH.[3][4]

The cleavage of POMC by PC1, adapted from Raffin-Sanson et al. (2003) [3].

The POMC gene is expressed in several tissues in man and other animals. These include the anterior, and intermediate lobes of the pituitary gland, the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) of the caudal medulla, and the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus.

The final products from the cleavage of POMC have a variety of functions. The melanocortins act on melanocortin receptors (MCRs): there are five types of MCR, and different melanocortin peptides bind to these with different affinities; for example, ACTH binds mainly to MC2R.β-en dorphin, on the other hand binds to opioid receptors [5] [2]

In mammals, α-MSH is generally assumed to be the main POMC product involved in appetite regulation. It is a potent inhibitor of appetite, acting on MC3-R and MC4-R in the arcuate nucleus. [6] Rodents do not express β-MSH, but it may have an important role in human appetite regulation. [7]

Desacetyl-α-MSH is a precursor for α-MSH and is widely distributed in the brain.[8] Although desacetyl-α-MSH displays a similar potency for receptor binding to α-MSH, it does not affect food intake except at extremely high doses.[9]

The arcuate nucleus contains several dirrerent neuronal types. There are two main populations of neurons regulating appetite; those expressing POMC, and those co-expressing neuropeptide Y (NPY) and agouti related peptide (AgRP), and which also signal with the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. The POMC neurones form part of the satiety pathway, and the NPY/AgRP neurones are part of orexigenic signalling.[10] AgRP acts as an inverse agonist at MC3-R and MC4-R, to help stimulate feeding.[10]

The POMC and NPY/AgRP neuron populations both express leptin receptors (LepRb). Leptin has opposing effects on these, activating the POMC neurons and inhibiting the NPY/AgRP neurons. [11] It is thought that the NPY/AgRP neurons project to inhibit the POMC neurons, partly mediated through GABA .[12] Using electron microscopy, co-expression of GABA and NPY was confirmed at these nerve terminals.[11] Leptin also acts at the GABA nerve terminals to reduce the inhibition of POMC neurons.

Ghrelin is the endogenous ligand for the GHS-Receptor, which is densely expressed in both the arcuate nucleus and the ventromedial hypothalamus. [13] Ghrelin increases the activity of NPY/AgRP neurons. [14]

There are five NPY receptors (named Y1-Y5), and NPY down-regulates POMC mRNA expression through the Y2 receptor.[15] PYY3-36, a satiety signal released from the gut after a meal, acts as an agonist at the presynaptic Y2 receptors on the nerve terminals of NPY/AgRP/GABA neurons. This is thought to lead to suppression of NPY and GABA release, and hence to increased electrical acivity of the POMC neurones in the arcuate nucleus.[16]


Species Variation in the POMC Gene

Evolutionary Tree for Vertebrates, adapted from Dores et al.[2]

The first vertebrates to evolve, about 530 million years ago, were jawless. Members of the agnatha superclass, the oldest extant class of vertebrates, are the jawless descendants of these early vertebrates. Modern day agnathans include lampreys and hagfish. The Gnathostomes (jawed vertebrates), appeared during the Middle Devonian era (~380 millions years ago) and bifurcated into the cartilaginous fish (Chondrichthyes) and the bony fish (Osteichthyes).

The Chondrichthyes diverged from the other major class of gnathostomes, the Osteichthyes, between 440 and 420 million years ago; and by 410 million years ago the two extant subclasses had been formed, Elasmobranchi and Holecephali. Osteichthyes is the largest class of vertebrates and can be divided into the Actinopterygians (ray-finned fish) and the Sarcopterygians (lobe-finned fish). The earliest tetrapods evolved from a common ancestor from the Sarcopterygii class during the Devonian era.

Agnatha

Two POMC-related DNA sequences were found in lamprey using cDNA cloning. It is thought that these two genes originated from a single ancestral lamprey POMC gene which was duplicated. The two genes then evolved and diverged according to their tissue-specific functions. The final products of the two genes, after post-translational modification, are the same as in gnathostomes.[5] One gene wo encodes two MSH sequences (MSH-A and MSH-B) and beta-endorphin, but not ACTH, and so was named proopimelanotropin (POM). The other gene encodes ACTH, a different beta-endorphin and nasohypophyseal factor, and was named proopiocortin (POC). The gene structures of POM and POC were consistent with gnathostomes POMC (three exons and two introns).[17]. Northern blot analysis showed tissue specific expression of POM and POC in the pars intermedia and pars distalis respectively, and similar distribution of MSH and ACTH to other vertebrates.[18]

Gnathostomes

Osteichthyes

POMC organisation among vertebrates in the Sarcoptergii class, consisting of the lobe-finned fish and the tetrapods, is very similar[2]. POMC in tetrapods, as described above, has three melanocortin sequences (γ-MSH, ACTH/α-MSH, and β-MSH) and a β-endorphin sequence. Lobe-finned fish, consisting of the lungfish and coelacanths [19], also have three MSHs in their POMC, as well as one β-END. There are also many similarities between the POMC amino acid sequences of species within the Sarcoptergii class[2]. This highlights the fact that tetrapods and lobe-finned fish share a common POMC ancestor. However, mutations have been found in the core sequence of the γ-MSH region in POMC of one species of lobe-finned fish (the Australian lungfish). Similar mutations have been found in some ray-finned fish, but not in other lobe-finned fish, or tetrapods [20]. This suggests that in the Australian lungfish, the γ-MSH sequence may be degenerating. This is similar to what has occurred in ray-finned fish.

Like the Sarcoptergians, some ray-finned fish, Actinopterygii) such as the paddlefish and the sturgeon, have three MSH regions in their POMC sequences. However, mutations have been found in the core sequence of the γ-MSH sequence in these species, and at the proposed cleavage sites marking this region[20][5], which probably means that it is non-functional and γ-MSH is not produced[21][2]. These mutations are similar to those found in the Australian lungfish.

All teleosts (a type of ray-finned fish), do not have the γ-MSH region at all. By sequencing the nucleotides of POMC mRNA, Kitahara et al.[22] noted its absence in salmon, and the same has been found in other teleosts[2]. This supports the theory that the POMC gene in ray-finned fish accumulated mutations in the γ-MSH region over time, leading to its eventual deletion in teleosts[20][5][23].

Some ray-finned fish also express two or more POMC genes. In the paddlefish, two POMC cDNA clones have been found[23]. This is the same in sockeye salmon, rainbow trout, and sturgeon[19]. However, in the flounder, three have been noted (POMC-A, POMC-B and POMC-C)[24]. It has therefore been suggested that there has been duplication of the POMC gene in these ray-finned fish. Unlike in the lamprey, these genes are still all co-expressed in the pituitary[2] and encode the same hormones as the tetrapod POMC. However, there are some differences between the two/three POMC genes expressed. For example, the β-MSH region is more highly conserved than the β-endorphin region in the paddlefish[23] and POMC-C in the flounder has mutations in the β-endorphin sequence[19]. It has been suggested that in ray-finned fish, the degeneration of the γ-MSH sequence occurred after the duplication of the POMC gene[23].

Chondrichthyes

The major distinguishing feature of Chondrithyan POMC is the presence of a fourth MSH sequence, δ-MSH, between the ACTH/α-MSH and β-MSH domains. The presence of δ-MSH exclusively in all Chondrichthyes suggests that it emerged after the divergence of the Chondrichthyans, but before the radiation into subclasses.[5]

The four MSHs can be classified into two groups, based on similarities in amino acid sequence and domain length: α-MSH/γ-MSH and β-MSH/δ-MSH. A region between δ- and β-MSH, known as the C-terminal extension of δ-MSH (CTED), was found to be very similar to the β-endorphin domain.[25] It has therefore been hypothesised that internal gene duplication of the β-MSH and β-endorphin domains, and subsequent mutations in the duplicated region, led to the formation of δ-MSH and CTED.

Hypothetical outline for the evolution and inheritance of the POMC gene, adapted from Dores et al. (2005)[2], and Kawauchi et al. (2006)[5]

Invertebrates

POMC peptides similar to those in vertebrates have been identified in invertebrates. The POMC genes contain the same domains in the same sequential order. Sequence identity of the leech POMC in its entirety was low when compared to vertebrate POMC, but ACTH and MSH display very high (over 80%) degrees of identity. Leech α-MSH displays the same inhibitory action on human leukocytes as vertebrate α-MSH. So, despite hundreds of millions of years of separate evolution and variations in peptide sequence, leech MSH is still able to act on a specific human MSH receptor.[26]

Molluscs contain a POMC-like peptide, similar to those found in mammals. Peptides formed from the precursor include γ-MSH, α-MSH, ACTH and a β-endorphin-like peptide.[27]

Taken together, these findings support the theory that POMC and its end-products originated early in chordate evolution. The common existence of α-, β- and γ-MSH in the same order suggests that they appeared before the bifurcation of invertebrates and vertebrates. At some point, an ancestral POMC gene may have existed, containing a single melanocortin domain and a β-endorphin domain. The ACTH/α-MSH sequence may have been the original melanocortin, as it has been very highly conserved throughout evolution.[2]

References

  1. ↑ Yang YK et al. (2003) Recent developments in our understanding of melanocortin system in the regulation of food intake Obesity Rev 4:239-48 PMID 14649374
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.9 Dores RM et al. (2005) Trends in the evolution of the proopiomelanocortin gene Gen Comp Endocrinol 142:81-93 PMID 15862552
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Raffin-Sanson et al. (2003) Proopiomelanocortin, a polypeptide precursor with multiple functions: from physiology to pathological conditions Eur J Endocrinol 149:79–90 PMID 12887283.
  4. ↑ Millington GW (2007) The role of proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurones in feeding behaviour Nutrition and Metabolism 4:18 PMID 17764572
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 Kawauchi H et al. (2006) The dawn and evolution of hormones in the adenohypophysis Gen Comp Endocrinol 148:3-14 PMID 16356498.
  6. ↑ Tung YCL et al. (2007) A comparative study of the central effects of specific proopiomelanocortin (POMC)-derived melanocortin peptides on food intake and body weight in POMC null mice Endocrinology 147:5940-7 PMID 16959830
  7. ↑ Lee YS et al. (2006) A POMC variant implicates β-melanocyte-stimulating hormone in the control of human energy balance Cell Metabol 3:135-40 PMID 16459314
  8. ↑ Loh Y et al. (1980) MSH-like peptides in rat brain: identification and changes in level during development Biochem Biophys Res Commun 94:916-23 PMID 7396941
  9. ↑ Abbott et al. (2000). Investigation of the melanocyte stimulating hormones on food intake. Lack of evidence to support a role for the melanocortin-3-receptor Brain Res 869:203–10 PMID 10865075
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 Dhillo WS et al. (2002) Hypothalamic interactions between neuropeptide Y, agouti-related protein, cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript and alpha-melanocytestimulating hormone in vitro in male rats J Neuroendocrinol 14:725-30 PMID 12213133
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 Cowley MA et al. (2001) Leptin activates anorexigenic POMC neurons through a neural network in the arcuate nucleus. Nature 441:480-4 PMID 11373681
  12. ↑ Cone RD (2005) Anatomy and regulation of the central melanocortin system Nat Neurosci 8:571-8 PMID 15856065
  13. ↑ Kojima M et al. (1999) Ghrelin is a growth-hormone-releasing acylated from stomach Nature 402:656–60 PMID 10604470
  14. ↑ Cowley MA et al. (2003) The distribution and mechanism of action of ghrelin in the CNS demonstrates a novel hypothalamic circuit regulating energy homeostasis Neuron 37:649-61 PMID 12597862
  15. ↑ Garcia de Yebenes E et al. (1995) Regulation of proopiomelanocortin gene expression by neuropeptide Y in the rat arcuate nucleus Brain Res 674:112-116 PMID 7773678
  16. ↑ Batterham RL et al. (2002) Gut hormone PYY3-36 physiologically inhibits food intake. Nature 418:650-654 PMID 12167864
  17. ↑ Takahashi A et al. (2005) Structures for the proopiomelanocortin family genes proopiocortin and proopiomelanotropin in the sea lamprey Petromyzon
  18. ↑ Takahashi A et al. (1995) Melanotropin and corticotrophin are encoded on two distinct genes in the lamprey, the earliest evolved extant vertebrate. Biochem Biophys Res Comm 213:490-8 PMID 7646504
  19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 19.2 Takahashi A, Kawauchi H (2006) Evolution of melanocortin systems in fish Gen Comp Endocrinol 148:85-94 PMID 16289182
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 20.2 Dores RM et al. (1999). Cloning of a proopiomelanocortin cDNA from the pituitary of the Australian lungfish, Neoceratodus forsteri: analyzing trends in the organization of this prohormone precursor Gen Comp Endocrinol 116:433-44 PMID 10603281
  21. ↑ Amemiya Y et al. (1997). Sturgeon proopiomelanocortin has a remnant of gamma-melanotropin Biochem Biophys Res Commun 230:452-6 PMID 9016801
  22. ↑ Kitahara N et al. (1988) Absence of a gamma-melanocyte-stimulating hormone sequence in proopiomelanocortin mRNA of chum salmon Oncorhynchus keta. Comp Biochem Physiol B 91:365-70 PMID 3197404
  23. ↑ 23.0 23.1 23.2 23.3 Danielson PB et al. (1999) Duplication of the POMC gene in the paddlefish (Polyodon spathula): analysis of gamma-MSH, ACTH, and beta-endorphin regions of ray-finned fish POMC Gen Comp Endocrinol 116:164-77 PMID 10562447
  24. ↑ Takahashi A et al (2005) Nucleotide sequence and expression of three subtypes of proopiomelanocortin mRNA in barfin flounder Gen Comp Endocrinol 141:291-303 PMID 15804516
  25. ↑ Takahashi A et al. (2004) Molecular cloning of proopiomelanocortin cDNA in the ratfish, a holocephalan Gen Comp Endocrinol 135:159-65 PMID 14644656
  26. ↑ Salzet M et al. (1997) Leech immunocytes contain proopiomelanocortin : nitric oxide mediates hemolymph proopiomelanocortin processing. Journal of Immunology 159:5400-11 PMID 9548480
  27. ↑ Stefano GB et al. (1999) Mytilus edulis hemolymph contains pro-opiomelanocortin: LPS and morphine stimulate differential processing Mol Brain Res 63:340-50 PMID 9878818
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