I am searching for phaeomelanin, in regards to reptiles. So far, I have this...
http://www.experiencefestival.com/a/...ion/id/1734677
Mc1r - Non-mammalian Mc1r
Mc1r has a slightly different function in cold-blooded animals such as fish, amphibians and reptiles. Here α-melanocyte stimulating hormone activation of Mc1r results in the dispersion of eumelanin filled melanosomes throughout the interior of pigment cells (called melanophores). This gives the skin of the animal a darker hue and often occurs in response to changes in mood or environment. Such a physiological color change implicates Mc1r as a key mediator of adaptive cryptic coloration. The role of Asip binding to Mc1r in regulating this adaptation is unclear, however in teleoest fish at least, functional antagonism is provided by melanin concentrating hormone. This signals through its receptor to aggregate the melanosomes towards a small area in the centre of the melanophore, resulting in the animal having a lighter overall appearance. [1] Cephalopods generate a similar, albeit more dramatic, pigmentary effect using muscles to rapidly stretch and relax their pigmented chromatophores. Mc1r does not appear to play a role in the rapid and spectacular colour changes observed in these invertebrates.
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