PROOPIOMELANOCORTIN IS SYNTHESIZED AND RELEASED FROM

• A. Zona glomerulosa cells
• B. Gonadotropes
• C. Thyrotropes
• D. Pulmonary neuroendocrine bodies ✓
• E. Erythrocytes

Pulmonary neuroendocrine bodies, also known as Kulchitsky cells, are specialized neuroendocrine cells found in the lungs. These cells are responsible for the synthesis and release of various neuropeptides, including proopiomelanocortin (POMC). POMC is a precursor protein that gives rise to several biologically active peptides, such as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSHs), and endorphins. The production of POMC in pulmonary neuroendocrine bodies plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including stress response, immune function, and pain modulation.

In other words, Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) is a precursor protein that gives rise to several bioactive peptides, including melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and beta-lipotropin. These peptides play crucial roles in various physiological processes, such as energy homeostasis, stress response, and pigmentation.

The primary site of POMC synthesis in the human body is the anterior pituitary gland. However, it has been discovered that an additional source of POMC exists in the lungs, specifically in the pulmonary neuroendocrine bodies or carotid body glomus cells. These cells are part of the peripheral nervous system and are responsible for sensing oxygen levels and carbon dioxide levels in the blood. In response to hypoxia (low oxygen levels), these cells release various neuropeptides, including POMC and its derivatives, to help regulate respiration and maintain homeostasis.