Beta MSH (melanocyte-stimulating hormone) is produced as a precursor by the pituitary gland. Beta MSH increases the pigmentation of skin by increasing melanin production in melanocytes. Beta MSH corresponds to aa 217-234 of corticotropin precursor (pro-opiomelanocortin, POMC). Like alpha-MSH, beta-MSH is also capable of activating the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4-R) and inhibiting feeding.