Dictionary > Lipotropin

Lipotropin

Definition
noun, plural: lipotropins
A polypeptide hormone of the anterior pituitary gland, presumably acts by promoting fat utilization (lipolysis) and as a precursor to certain endogenous opiate peptides
Supplement
Lipotropin is a polypeptide hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary, particularly by the corticotrophic cell. Corticotrophic cells are one of the different types of cells in the anterior pituitary. Apart from the lipotropin, they also produce and release melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
Lipotropin is a large polypeptide (about 90 amino acid units) produced through the cleavage of proopiomelanocortin protein (i.e. POMC, which also serves as a precursor to other neuropeptides like adrenocorticotropin).
The main physiological role of lipotropin is believed to be associated with promoting fat mobilization from adipose tissues. It appears to regulate the excess amounts of fats in adipose tissues and liver. It has an affinity for lipids, improving the utilization of fats in the body, thus, preventing the accumulation of fats in tissues. The condition in which there is an excess of fats in tissue or bodily organ is referred to as lipotrophy.
Lipotropin is also associated with skin darkening. It was reported to stimulate melanocytes to produce melanin (dark pigment). It also acts as a precursor to certain endogenous opiates, such as endorphins.
Word origin: lipotrop(ic) + -in
Synonym(s):

  • lipid-mobilizing hormone
  • lipotropic hormone
  • lipotropic pituitary hormone

See also:

  • anterior pituitary
  • corticotroph
  • Related form(s):

    • lipotropic (adjective, of, relating to lipotropin; having the affinity for lipids to promote mobilization of fats thus preventing accumulation of fats in tissues and organs)


    You will also like...

    Ecological Research Measuring & Analysis
    Ecological Research: Measuring & Analysis

    This lesson is about the methods used for ecological research, such as quadrat and transect sampling, canopy fogging, an..

    Neurology of Illusions
    Neurology of Illusions

    Illusions are the perceptions and sensory data obtained from situations in which human error prevents us from seeing the..

    Circulation
    Circulation

    The circulatory system is key to the transport of vital biomolecules and nutrients throughout the body. Learn about the ..

    Nephrolepis exaltata
    Vascular Plants: Ferns and Relatives

    Ferns and their relatives are vascular plants, meaning they have xylem and phloem tissues. Because of the presence of va..

    New Zealand - Biodiversity fauna
    New Zealand’s Biodiversity

    Find out more about New Zealand's unique biodiversity by exploring a range of different ecosystems and the key role of s..

    Genetics – Lesson Outline & Worksheets
    Genetics – Lesson Outline & Worksheets

      Topics Modules Quizzes/Worksheets Description Introduction to Genetics Genetics – Definition: Heredity and ..

    Related Articles...

    No related articles found

    See all Related Topics