This intronless gene encodes the receptor protein for melanocyte -stimulating hormone (MSH). The encoded protein, a seven pass transmembrane G protein coupled receptor, controls melanogenesis. Two types of melanin exist: red pheomelanin and black eumelanin.

This intronless gene encodes the receptor protein for melanocyte -stimulating hormone (MSH). The encoded protein, a seven pass transmembrane G protein coupled receptor, controls melanogenesis. Two types of melanin exist: red pheomelanin and black eumelanin.

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), also designated seven transmembrane (7TM) receptors and heptahelical receptors, are a protein family which interact with G proteins (heterotrimeric GTPases) to synthesize intracellular second messengers such as diacylglycerol, cyclic AMP, inositol

p21-activated kinases (PAKs) belong to the family of serine/threonine kinases involved in the control of various cellular processes, including the cell cycle, dynamics of the cytoskeleton, apoptosis, oncogenic transformation, and transcription. All PAK family members

p21-activated kinases (PAKs) belong to the family of serine/threonine kinases involved in the control of various cellular processes, including the cell cycle, dynamics of the cytoskeleton, apoptosis, oncogenic transformation, and transcription. All PAK family members