Immunological localisation of melanocortin 1 receptor on the cell surface of WM266-4 human melanoma cells.
Xia. Y Y; Muceniece. R R; Wikberg. J E JE
Key Findings
- MC1R protein was detected in the membrane fraction of WM266‑4 melanoma cells by ELISA
- Specificity was proven because the signal disappeared when the antiserum was pre‑absorbed with the MC1R peptide
- Immunocytochemistry visualized MC1R on the cell surface using two different staining methods
Practical Outcomes
- The finding reassures that melanotan‑I can theoretically reach its receptor on cell surfaces, but the work was done in cancer cells and offers no direct guidance on how to use the peptide for skin tanning, metabolism, or performance. It’s mainly a confirmation of receptor location, not a protocol or safety breakthrough.
Summary
The study shows that the melanocortin‑1 receptor (the target of melanotan‑I) is located on the outer membrane of a human melanoma cell line, confirming the receptor is accessible for binding. This is basic cell‑biology work and doesn’t give dosing or safety tips for everyday use.
Abstract
The localisation of melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) in WM266-4 human melanoma cells was investigated by applying an antipeptide antiserum specific for the cloned human MC1R (MSH receptor). In enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), the immunoreactivity was detected in the membrane fraction of WM266-4 cells. The ELISA reactivity could be inhibited by an antiserum pre-absorbed with its specific synthetic peptide. In immunocytochemistry, the specific immunoreactivity was demonstrated on the surface of the cells by using either biotin-avidin immunoalkaline phosphatase- or TRITC-staining method. These results indicate that the MC1R is prominently present on the plasma membrane of WM266-4 human melanoma cells.
Study Information
pubmed
1996
1996-01-02T00:00:00.000Z