The 'Hormone Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone' (MSH) is secreted by the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland (in some species) and primarily acts to:
A. Stimulate the growth of hair
B. Inhibit the production of melanin
C. Regulate blood pressure
D. Stimulate the production of melanin in melanocytes
Answer: Option D
Solution (By JKExamLibrary)
Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (MSH) is a peptide hormone produced primarily by the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland (pars intermedia), though in humans, this lobe is rudimentary and MSH is mainly derived from the cleavage of pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) in the anterior lobe. Its primary function, especially in lower vertebrates like amphibians and reptiles, is to stimulate the melanocytes in the skin to produce and disperse melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color, leading to darkening of the skin. In humans, its role in pigmentation is less significant.
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