The melanocyte-stimulating hormones (collectively referred to as MSH or intermedins) are a class of peptide hormones that in nature are produced by cells in the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland. They stimulate the production and release of melanin (melanogenesis) by melanocytes in skin and hair. Beta-MSH (melanocyte stimulating hormone) is capable of activating melanocortin-4 receptor and inhibiting feeding. | 