Alpha MSH is a 13 amino acid peptide (1665 kD) with serine at the N terminal end and amidated valine at the C terminal end. Alpha MSH is derived from pro-opiomelanocortin , a precursor protein which contains within its structure , the sequence of ACTH, beta MSH and gamma MSH. The aminoacid sequence of alpha MSH is identical to ACTH 1-13 in humans. Alpha MSH stimulates melanosome dispersion within dermal melanocytes and melanin biosynthesis within epidermal melanocytes .It also stimulates aldosterone synthesis. Plasma alpha MSH increases in human with high fever due to endotoxin. Average plasma alpha MSH has been found higher in AIDS patients and also in obese men with insulin resistance.
Fasting Specimen is preferred.
Patient should be freee from medications for 2 days.
3.0 mL Plasma from a Lavender Top Tube - EDTA in a Plastic Vial
6 hours Refrigerated
90 days Frozen
1.0 mL Plasma
Children: Up to 25 pg/ml
Adults: Up to 5.0 pg/ml
Alpha MSH is a 13 amino acid peptide (1665 kD) with serine at the N terminal end and amidated valine at the C terminal end. Alpha MSH is derived from pro-opiomelanocortin , a precursor protein which contains within its structure , the sequence of ACTH, beta MSH and gamma MSH. The aminoacid sequence of alpha MSH is identical to ACTH 1-13 in humans. Alpha MSH stimulates melanosome dispersion within dermal melanocytes and melanin biosynthesis within epidermal melanocytes .It also stimulates aldosterone synthesis. Plasma alpha MSH increases in human with high fever due to endotoxin. Average plasma alpha MSH has been found higher in AIDS patients and also in obese men with insulin resistance.
4 to 7 days
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83520